Here's how it works:
* Comma Splice: A comma splice happens when two independent clauses (sentences that can stand alone) are joined only by a comma. This is grammatically incorrect.
* Coordinating Conjunctions: These are words like "and," "but," "or," "for," "nor," "so," and "yet." They connect grammatically equal elements, including independent clauses.
* Fixing the Splice: By adding a coordinating conjunction and a comma before it, you create a grammatically correct compound sentence.
Example:
* Comma Splice: The cat sat on the mat, it looked very comfortable.
* Corrected Sentence: The cat sat on the mat, and it looked very comfortable.
Important Note: Be sure to use the correct conjunction to show the relationship between the clauses. For example:
* and: Used to show addition
* but: Used to show contrast
* or: Used to show alternatives
* for: Used to show cause or reason
* nor: Used to show negative alternatives
* so: Used to show result
* yet: Used to show contrast