Punctuation Tip: Comma Splice
A comma splice is simply an error in sentence punctuation. This punctuation tip describes several
fixes—from easy to complex—for comma splices.
A "splice" occurs at the junction where two things are linked. A comma splice occurs when two independent
clauses (groups of words that form a complete sentence) are linked with a comma but not with a coordinating
conjunction (and, but, for, nor, or, so, yet).
Examples
In the following example, the reader may not be certain whether the word however belongs to the first or
to the second clause. Comma splices often involve the word however.
Example
Three studies provided evidence of a strong relationship between sleep
disorders and memory loss, however, other reports produced conflicting results.
Simple correction 1: Replace with a
semi-colon
Three studies provided evidence of a strong relationship between sleep disorders and memory loss; however, other
reports produced conflicting results.
Simple correction 2: Create two
sentences
Three studies provided evidence of a strong relationship between sleep disorders and memory loss. However, other
reports produced conflicting results.
Simple correction 3: Add a
conjunction
Three studies provided evidence of a strong relationship between sleep disorders and memory loss, but other
reports produced conflicting results.
The next sentence could also be corrected by any of the methods shown above. However, an addional solution
is to revise one of the clauses.
Example
The incidence of varicella increased to 12,000 cases in 2000, half of those
cases occurred in children.
Complex correction: Revise one
clause
The incidence of varicella increased to 12,000 cases in 2000, half of them occurring in children.
Quick Tips
- To determine whether a sentence contains a comma splice, take a closer look. If two clauses are joined by a
comma but have no conjunction, and the clauses can stand on their own, then there is a comma splice.
- The simplest solution is to replace the comma with a semi-colon. Alternatively, add a conjunction or
divide the clauses into two sentences.
- A more complex solution is to revise one of the clauses.
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