Comma Splices Will Doom Us All!

Front

What is a comma splice?

Back

A comma splice is a grammatical error that occurs when two independent clauses are joined by a comma without a coordinating conjunction.

Front

How can you correct a comma splice?

Back

You can correct a comma splice by using a period to separate the clauses, adding a coordinating conjunction, or using a semicolon.

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought.

Front

What is a coordinating conjunction?

Back

A coordinating conjunction is a word that connects two independent clauses. The most common coordinating conjunctions are for, and, nor, but, or, yet, and so (FANBOYS).

Front

What is the purpose of punctuation in writing?

Back

Punctuation helps clarify meaning, indicate pauses, and separate ideas in writing, making it easier for readers to understand.

Front

What is a run-on sentence?

Back

A run-on sentence occurs when two or more independent clauses are joined without appropriate punctuation or conjunctions.

Front

What is the difference between a semicolon and a comma?

Back

A semicolon is used to connect closely related independent clauses, while a comma is used to separate elements within a sentence or to join clauses with a conjunction.

Front

What is the role of a period in writing?

Back

A period indicates the end of a sentence, signaling to the reader that a complete thought has been expressed.

Front

What is a fragment?

Back

A fragment is an incomplete sentence that lacks an independent clause and does not express a complete thought.

Front

How can you identify a comma splice in a sentence?

Back

Look for two independent clauses that are connected by a comma without a coordinating conjunction.