A comma splice occurs when two independent clauses (complete thoughts) are incorrectly joined together by just a comma. Here’s a simple example:

• Incorrect: I love learning English, it’s a rewarding challenge.

Each part of the sentence on either side of the comma could stand alone as a full sentence. That’s where the problem lies: the comma alone isn’t strong enough to link two independent clauses.

How to Fix Comma Splices

There are several ways to avoid or fix comma splices. Let’s break them down:

1. Use a Period (Make Two Sentences)

If each clause is a complete sentence, simply separate them with a period.

• Incorrect: She loves to read, she goes to the library every week.
• Correct: She loves to read. She goes to the library every week.

1. Use a Semicolon (;)

A semicolon can join two independent clauses that are closely related in meaning. Think of it as a “soft period.”

• Incorrect: The sun was shining, we decided to go for a walk.
• Correct: The sun was shining; we decided to go for a walk.

1. Add a Coordinating Conjunction (FANBOYS)

FANBOYS stands for: For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So. Adding one of these after the comma can properly connect the two clauses.

• Incorrect: She was tired, she stayed up late studying.
• Correct: She was tired, but she stayed up late studying.

1. Use a Subordinating Conjunction

A subordinating conjunction can turn one of the clauses into a dependent clause, which needs the rest of the sentence to make sense. Some examples of subordinating conjunctions are: because, although, since, when.

• Incorrect: It started raining, we went inside.
• Correct: Since it started raining, we went inside.

Common Mistakes and Tips

1. Comma Splice vs. Run-on Sentence
   • A comma splice happens when you use a comma to join two independent clauses.
   • A run-on sentence happens when two independent clauses are combined without any punctuation at all.
   • Example of a run-on: It’s late I should go to bed.
   • Correction: It’s late. I should go to bed.
2. Beware of Long Sentences
   • Long sentences often lead to comma splices. If your sentence has multiple parts, check if they can stand alone as sentences. If so, use one of the methods above to separate them properly.

Practice Time!

Let’s practice avoiding comma splices. Fix the following sentences:

1. He wanted to stay longer, he had to leave early.
2. I finished my homework, I went outside to play.
3. She was hungry, she didn’t have any food with her.

Answers:

1. He wanted to stay longer, but he had to leave early.
2. I finished my homework; I went outside to play.
3. She was hungry, yet she didn’t have any food with her.

Pro Tip:

Remember the FANBOYS rule to avoid comma splices. If you can replace the comma with one of these conjunctions (For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So), you’re likely on the right track!