Comma Splices

What is a comma splice? A comma splice is a sentence that incorrectly uses a comma by itself to join two complete thoughts.

Example:
     It has been raining for days, the ground is all muddy.

There are 3 quick ways to fix a comma splice:

1. Use a period to make two sentences, like this:
        It has been raining for days. The ground is all muddy.
2. Use a semicolon to join the sentences, like this:
        It has been raining for days; the ground is all muddy.
   

   
   Semicolons work like periods and can be used as long as the sentences are talking about the same topic.

3. Add a coordinating conjunction (one of the FANBOYS) after the comma, like this:
        It has been raining for days, so the ground is all muddy.

Remember FANBOYS stands for: For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So.

Tips to Remember: Joining two complete thoughts with just a comma makes a comma splice. You can fix this error by using a period or semicolon instead of a comma. You can also add a coordinating conjunction after the comma. The choice is yours!