Fixing the Comma Splice
Comma splice: A comma splice occurs when two independent clauses are joined by only a comma.
Example: We hiked in the Blue Ridge Mountains for three weeks, we were very tired.
Three Easy Ways to Correct Comma Splices
1. Change the comma to a period and capitalize the next word.
Correct: We hiked in the Blue Ridge Mountains for three weeks. We were very tired.
2. Change the comma to a semicolon.
Correct: We hiked in the Blue Ridge Mountains 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.
Correct: We hiked in the Blue Ridge Mountains 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. If it is a comma splice, suggest a fix.
____ 1. My apartment is too small, I have no room for my treadmill and exercise bike.
____ 2. I'm exhausted, however, I will go to school anyway.
____ 3. Tom opened his freezer, he noticed that two cans of beer had exploded.
____ 4. Although I understand the definition, comma splices still confuse me.
____ 5. A comma splice occurs when two complete sentences are joined only by a comma, I need to
remember that rule.
____ 6. It's means "it is" or "it has," its' is always incorrect.
____ 7. I hiked for five hours yesterday, consequently, I am too tired to go hiking again today.
____ 8. For example, I like to read suspense novels, email my friends, and play cards with my daughter.
____ 9. My son Geoffrey plays drums in a band called Talent Scam, and he likes to surf at Playalinda Beach.
____10. Some people value money and material possessions, others value love and family.
Source: http://www.daltonstate.edu/writing-lab/writing-lab-practice-exercises/CommaSplicePractice1.html