Comma Splices

Comma splices are misplaced commas between two independent (or main) clauses where a coordinating conjunction, semi-colon or period should be.  In other words, comma splices are commas that join two clauses that could otherwise be two complete sentences separated by a period.  To identify commas splices, ask if:

·        a period could replace the comma 

·        the two phrases have their own subjects (main nouns) and predicates (verb phrases).  [see the Clause handout for more info] 

·        a coordinating conjunction (FOR, AND, NOR, BUT, OR, SO, YET) could come after the comma.

Revision of the Comma Splice:

CS:                  I must rely on my dictionary a great deal, I’m a poor speller.

Revisions:         I must rely on my dictionary a great deal, for I’m a poor speller.

                        I must rely on my dictionary a great deal; I’m a poor speller.

                        I must rely on my dictionary a great deal. I’m a poor speller.

CS:                  The children walked around aimlessly, they did not know where to go.

Revisions:         The children walked around aimlessly. They did not know where to go.

The children walked around aimlessly, and they did not know where to go.

The children walked around aimlessly; they did not know where to go.

CS:                  Happy are those who hunger for justice, they shall inherit the earth.       

Revisions:         Happy are those who hunger for justice, for they shall inherit the earth.                         
                        Happy are those who hunger for justice; they shall inherit the earth.         

                        Happy are those who hunger for justice.  They shall inherit the earth.     

Exercise

After the marathon they walked around a bit, their muscles were sore.

After the marathon they walked around a bit___________________________

Sal dangled from the rope, her hands were slippery with sweat.

Sal dangled from the rope____________________________________

Jan’s head was full of knowledge, she left the classroom.

Jan’s head was full of knowledge_______________________________