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An independent clause has a subject and a verb and can stand alone as a sentence.

Good writers know that correct punctuation is important to writing clear sentences. If you misuse punctuation, you risk confusing your reader and appearing careless. Notice how the placement of commas significantly affects the meaning of these sentences:

Mr. Jones, says Ms. Moore, is a boring old fool.
Mr. Jones says Ms. Moore is a boring old fool.

Writers often combine independent clauses in a single compound sentence to emphasize a close relationship between ideas. The punctuation of compound sentences varies depending upon how you connect the clauses.

Rules

  1. Separate independent clauses with a comma when using a coordinating conjunction (e.g., and, but, or, for, nor, so, yet).
  2. Separate independent clauses with a semicolon when not using a coordinating conjunction.
  3. Separate independent clauses with a semicolon when using a conjunctive adverb (e.g., however, therefore, thus, consequently, finally, nevertheless).
Examples of Correct Punctuation, Rule A:

We all looked worse than usual, for we had stayed up studying for the exam.

This room is unbelievably hot, and I think that I am going to pass out.

Monday is a difficult day for me, so I try to prepare as much as possible on Sunday.

Examples of Correct Punctuation, Rule B:

We all looked worse than usual; we had stayed up studying for the exam.

This room is unbelievably hot; I think I am going to pass out.

Monday is a difficult day for me; I try to prepare as much as possible on Sunday. 

Examples of Correct Punctuation, Rule C:

We all looked worse than usual; nevertheless, we were relieved we had studied.

This room is unbelievably hot; therefore, I think I am going to pass out.

Monday is a difficult day for me; however, I have figured out how to prepare for it.

See Sin No. 3

Student on computer

Express Yourself

Developing the ability to communicate in a clear, organized, and effective way is a central goal of a liberal arts education — and a prerequisite for a successful career. That’s why we established centers for writing and speaking.

Tutor Appointments

Peer tutor and consultant appointments are managed through TracCloud (login required). Find resources and more information about the ALEX centers using the following links.

Contact

Office / Department Name

Nesbitt-Johnston Writing Center

Contact Name

Jennifer Ambrose

Writing Center Director

Office Location
Kirner-Johnson 152
Hours
M
10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Tu
10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
W
10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Th
10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Fr
10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Su
2 p.m. - 10 p.m.

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