1. Use a period (.)
* This creates two separate sentences, making the meaning clear.
* Example: *The dog barked loudly, he chased the squirrels up the tree.* Corrected: *The dog barked loudly. He chased the squirrels up the tree.*
2. Use a semicolon (;)
* This joins two closely related independent clauses.
* Example: *The rain was pouring down, we had to cancel the picnic.* Corrected: *The rain was pouring down; we had to cancel the picnic.*
3. Use a comma and a coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS)
* Use a comma before the conjunction.
* Example: *She was exhausted, yet she still finished the project.*
* FANBOYS: For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So
4. Use a subordinating conjunction
* This creates a dependent clause that is connected to the independent clause.
* Example: *The sun was shining brightly, the birds were singing happily.* Corrected: *The sun was shining brightly because the birds were singing happily.*
Important Note:
It's always a good idea to read your writing aloud after correcting comma splices and run-on sentences. This helps you catch any remaining errors and ensure the flow of your writing is clear and understandable.