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Pastimes : SI Grammar and Spelling Lab
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To: The Philosopher who wrote (3147)7/15/1999 8:04:00 AM
From: B.C.   of 4711
 
In an elliptical clause, one or more words are unstated but clearly implied. Introductory elliptical clauses are followed by a comma.

In your sentence, "then" is the unstated yet implied word.

"If we had a decent educational system, then everybody would use it at least once a month."

An introductory clause of over 5 words (as is yours) is considered long and in need of the comma.

Hence, I believe the following is correct: "If we had a decent educational system, everybody would use it at least once a month."

Plus, the sentence SCREAMS for a comma, and my senses bristle without it!
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