Recognize and Avoid Comma Splices
| Recognize and Avoid Comma Splices
|
Sentence , Sentence = Comma Splice |
|
A comma splice is the incorrect use of a comma for end-of-sentence punctuation. A comma cannot be used to end a sentence unless a coordinating conjunction follows it. |
| Example: Cell phones are very popular, they can be used for all types of communication. Subject + Verb Subject + Verb |
| To edit for comma splices like the one in the example above, scan your paper for commas. Are any of your commas between clauses that are not joined with a coordinator? Is the clause to the left of the comma a complete sentence? If it is, you have a comma splice and need to change your punctuation. |
| There are five easy ways to correct comma splices. |
| 1. Replace the comma with a period. Cell phones are very popular. They can be used for all types of communication. |
| 2. Replace the comma with a semi-colon. Cell phones are very popular; they can be used for all types of communication. |
| 3. Keep the comma and use a logical coordinating conjunction. Cell phones are very popular, for they can be used for all types of communication. |
| 4. Replace the comma with a logical subordinating conjunction. Cell phones are very popular because they can be used for all types of communication. |
| 5. Replace the comma with a semi-colon (or a period) and use a logical transition. Cell phones are very popular; in fact, they can be used for all types of communication. |