Comma Splices 

Overview 

A comma splice is a grammar mistake that happens when two complete sentences are joined with just a comma. A comma isn’t strong enough on its own to connect two independent clauses. This error can make your writing sound rushed, unclear, or incorrect.

Why comma splices are a problem

When you use a comma splice, you’re combining two full sentences in a way that breaks grammar rules. Even though it might sound okay when you speak, it can confuse readers or make your writing seem less polished.

• Incorrect: I love writing, I do it every day.

• Both sides of the comma are complete sentences, so they need to be joined correctly.

Fixing comma splices with a period

The easiest fix is to break the sentence into two separate ones by using a period.

• Correct: I love writing. I do it every day.

• This creates two simple, clear sentences.

Fixing comma splices with a semicolon

A semicolon can connect two related sentences without needing a conjunction.

• Correct: I love writing; I do it every day.

• This shows the ideas are connected but keeps the grammar correct.

Fixing comma splices with a conjunction

You can also fix a comma splice by adding a coordinating conjunction (like and, but, or, so).

• Correct: I love writing, and I do it every day.

• The conjunction helps link the ideas while keeping the sentence grammatically correct.

Spotting comma splices in longer sentences

Comma splices often happen in longer sentences where the writer forgets that two complete thoughts need stronger punctuation. Always check whether each part of your sentence could stand alone as a sentence.

• Incorrect: He was running late, he skipped breakfast.

• Correct: He was running late, so he skipped breakfast. Or: He was running late. He skipped breakfast.

Summary

Comma splices are easy to make but just as easy to fix once you know how. Remember: if you’re joining two complete thoughts, you need more than just a comma. You can use a period, a semicolon, or a comma with a conjunction to keep your writing clear and correct.