At a Glance: Editing for Comma Splices and Fused Sentences

Editing for Comma Splices and Fused Sentences

AT A GLANCE

Two independent clauses—groups of words that can stand alone as sentences—joined with no punctuation form a fused sentence. Two such clauses joined only by a comma form a comma splice. Here are six methods of editing comma splices and fused sentences. As you edit, look at the sentences around the ones you are revising to determine how a particular method will affect the rhythm of the passage.

  1. Separate the clauses into two sentences. (37a)

    image

  2. Link the clauses with a comma and a coordinating conjunction (and, but, or, nor, for, so, or yet). (37b)

    image

  3. Link the clauses with a semicolon. (37c)

    image

    If the clauses are linked with only a comma and a conjunctive adverb—a word like however, then, therefore—add a semicolon.

    image

  4. Recast the two clauses as one independent clause. (37d)

    image

  5. Recast one independent clause as a dependent clause. (37e)

    image

  6. In informal writing, link the clauses with a dash. (37f)

    image