1. Add a Coordinating Conjunction:
* What it is: Use a coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS - for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) to join two independent clauses.
* Example:
* Incorrect: The sun was setting, the sky turned a brilliant orange.
* Correct: The sun was setting, and the sky turned a brilliant orange.
2. Use a Semicolon:
* What it is: A semicolon (;) can separate two closely related independent clauses.
* Example:
* Incorrect: The storm raged all night, we couldn't get any sleep.
* Correct: The storm raged all night; we couldn't get any sleep.
3. Use a Period:
* What it is: A period (.) creates a complete stop between two sentences.
* Example:
* Incorrect: The train arrived late, the passengers were frustrated.
* Correct: The train arrived late. The passengers were frustrated.
4. Use a Subordinating Conjunction:
* What it is: A subordinating conjunction (e.g., because, although, since, while) turns one of the clauses into a dependent clause, which can be joined to the independent clause with a comma.
* Example:
* Incorrect: We couldn't go to the beach, it was raining.
* Correct: We couldn't go to the beach because it was raining.
5. Change to a Compound Sentence:
* What it is: This technique uses a conjunction (often with a comma) and a connecting word (e.g., therefore, however, consequently) to join the two clauses.
* Example:
* Incorrect: The test was difficult, many students did not pass.
* Correct: The test was difficult; therefore, many students did not pass.
Note: Choosing the best technique depends on the relationship between the clauses and the desired tone of your writing.