Comma Splices and Fused Sentences Worksheet 1

Comma Splices and Fused Sentences Worksheet 1

A comma splice is the use of a comma where a period is needed. A fused sentence is one that does not have any punctuation at all where a period should be used.

Here are four ways to correct a comma splice or fused sentence:

1. Use a period after the first complete sentence and capitalize the word after the period.

2. Put a coordinating conjunction between the clauses. Be sure to use a comma before (never after) the conjunction.

3. Put the subordinate conjunction before one of the clauses. If you put the subordinate conjunction before the first clause, place a comma at the end of the clause.

4. Use a semicolon between the clauses. Do not capitalize the first word of the second clause.

Examples

1. Bill and Ted had an excellent adventure, they traveled through time to meet famous people.

2. W. C. Fields once said, “I am free of all prejudice, I hate everyone equally.”

3. The lectures are interesting and the reading is fun, however, I don’t like my professor.

4. Some think he is crazy, others believe he is a genius.

5. Many parents today are too permissive, not believing that children should be punished, this theory is responsible for much of our trouble, I firmly believe.

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This page last updated on 2/11/03