Commas splice (CS): A comma splice occurs when two independent clauses are joined by only a comma.
Comma splice: IC, IC.
Example: We hiked for three weeks, we were very tired.
Some Easy Ways to Correct Comma Splices
1. Change the comma to a period and capitalize the next word. (IC. IC.)
Correct: We hiked for three weeks. We were very tired.
2. Change the comma to a semicolon. (IC; IC.)
Correct: We hiked for three weeks; we were very tired.
3. Add a coordinating conjunction
before the second independent clause.
Coordinating conjunctions: and, or, but,
nor, for, so, yet. (IC, CC IC)
Correct: We hiked for three weeks, so we were very tired
Caution: Don't simply delete the comma; this will create a run-on or fused sentence.
Directions: For each sentence below, write CS if the sentence is a comma splice or C if the sentence is correct. Correct any comma splices using one of the methods described above. Suggested corrections are made in red.
1. Every year I make New Year's resolutions; for example, I will try to drink more water. Comma splice
2. Every year, however, I seem to fail at my resolutions.
3. I did not want to fail this year; consequently, I changed my resolution. Comma splice
4. I finally understood that goals needed to be specific, so I modified my goal.
5. This year I will drink four glasses of water every day; this goal is specific and measurable.Comma splice
6. While this is a measurable goal; however, four glasses of water a day is not sufficient.
7. I don't care. At least this year I will be successful. Comma splice
8. Today I found out my bad cholesterol is a little high; therefore, I will reduce my fat intake. Comma splice
9. I was reading the dictionary today, and I read that a "chrisom child" is a child who dies in its first month. This struck me a very sad. Comma splice
10. Perhaps I should stop reading the dictionary; on the other hand, it is useful for correcting my spelling. Comma splice