Comma Splice

One of the most common mistakes that writers make is the comma splice. A comma splice is a mistake that happens when two clauses are joined together with a comma instead of a conjunction or a semicolon. In this reference, we will discuss what a comma splice is, why it is a problem, how to identify it, and how to fix it.

What is a Comma Splice and Why is it a Problem?

Comma splices are a type of run-on sentences which occur when two independent clauses are joined together with a comma. Independent clauses are sets of words which can be their own complete sentences. When two of them are joined together with a comma, they form a run-on sentence. Run-on sentences can be difficult to read and can cause confusion for the reader.

Comma splices are a problem because they can make your writing appear unprofessional and can be distracting for the reader. They can also change the meaning of your sentence and make it difficult for the reader to understand your intended message. If you want your writing to be clear and effective, it is important to avoid comma splices. 

Comma Splice Examples

Here are some examples of comma splices:

• I went to the store, I bought some milk.
• She is a great singer, she is also an excellent dancer.
• He enjoys playing basketball, he is not very good at it.

In each of these examples, two independent clauses are joined together with a comma. These sentences are run-on sentences and should be corrected.

How to Identify a Comma Splice

Identifying a comma splice is easy once you know what to look for. Look for sentences that have two independent clauses joined together with a comma. To check if your sentence is a comma splice, try reading it out loud. If it sounds like two separate sentences, then it is likely a comma splice.

Common Causes of Comma Splices and How to Avoid Them

One of the most common causes of comma splices is a lack of understanding of sentence structure. Many writers mistakenly believe that a comma alone can join two independent clauses together. To avoid comma splices, it is important to understand the different types of sentence structures and how they are formed.

Another common cause of comma splices is a lack of knowledge of conjunctions and how they are used. Conjunctions help us join two independent clauses together. Some common conjunctions include "and", "but", and "or". Using conjunctions correctly can help you avoid comma splices.

To avoid comma splices, try using a conjunction or semicolon to join two independent clauses together. Alternatively, you can separate the two independent clauses into two separate sentences.

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What Does a Comma Splice Look Like in Different Sentences?

Comma splices can occur in a variety of sentence structures. Here are some examples of what a comma splice might look like in different sentences:

• In a compound sentence: "I went to the store, I bought some milk."
• In a complex sentence: "Although it was raining, I decided to go for a jog, I got completely soaked."
• In a series of items: "I need to buy some milk, bread, and cheese, I forgot my shopping list."

In each of these examples, two independent clauses are joined together with a comma. These sentences are run-on sentences and should be corrected.

Fixing Comma Splices

Fixing a comma splice is easy once you know how to do it. Here is how to fix a comma splice:

• Use a conjunction: "I went to the store, and I bought some milk."
• Use a semicolon: "I went to the store; I bought some milk."
• Use a period: "I went to the store. I bought some milk."

By using a conjunction, semicolon, or period, you can join two independent clauses together correctly and avoid a comma splice.

Summary

Comma splices can be distracting for the reader and can make your writing appear unprofessional. By using a conjunction, semicolon, or period, you can join two independent clauses together correctly and avoid this mistake. Pay attention to commas in your writing and check out more handy references below to learn and improve!