If you use the semicolon correctly, it can make your writing sound more sophisticated and connect closely related ideas.These easy steps will show you how to use the tricky semicolon the right way.
Step 1: Write a complete sentence.
A complete sentence must have a subject and a verbs.The action that is being performed in the sentence is related to the person, place, or thing."Wanda couldn't sleep last night."
Step 2: Write another related sentence.
This sentence must be related to the first sentence.She had too much on her mind.
Step 3: The sentences should be connected with a colon.
The first letter of the second sentence should be capitalized.She had too much to think about last night and couldn't sleep.
Step 4: A complicated list can be written in a sentence.
Each item should be separated by commas in the sentence.I have sisters in Columbus, Ohio, Palm Springs, Florida, and Oakland, California.
Step 5: The "super-comma" is used to separate items of the list.
It will be easier to distinguish between the items.I have sisters in Columbus, Ohio, Palm Springs, Florida, and Oakland, California.
Step 6: Write only one sentence.
The sentence can use a colon or dash.The longer the sentences are, the more internal they are.The most common way to separate sentences is with internal commas.My cousin, Martha Mary Louise, is the most talented and original cook I have ever met.
Step 7: Write a sentence that is closely related.
She can make almost any old food taste delicious, but she specializes in cod, fruitcake, and squash.
Step 8: The sentences should be connected with a colon.
Martha Mary Louise is the most talented and original cook I have ever met, she can make almost any old food taste delicious, but she does specialize in the following items: cod, fruitcake, and squash.
Step 9: You can use a semicolon to connect two sentences, one simple and one internal.
Martha Mary Louise is my cousin and she is the most talented and original cook I have ever met.
Step 10: Write something.
It's possible to keep it simple.I ate an entire apple pie last night.
Step 11: Another closely related sentence can be written using a transitional phrase or conjunctive adverb.
Cause and effect, contrast, or comparison are words that show a relationship between the two sentences.However, besides, finally, and hence are some examples.You can move from one sentence to the next in a logical and smooth way.In addition, some examples include in other words.I felt sick when I woke up.
Step 12: Attach the two with a letter.
I ate an entire apple pie last night and felt sick when I woke up.
Step 13: The use of a semicolon is not recommended.
Commas can be used to connect two simple sentences and a coordinating conjunction, while a semicolon cannot."I love my cat, but he drives me crazy" is an example of correct usage.I love my cat, but he drives me crazy.
Step 14: The semi-colon should be used instead of the comma.
It is impossible to separate two independent clauses with a comma.This should be avoided at all times."My kitty is cute; he loves to cuddle." is an example of correct usage."My kitty is cute, he loves to cuddle."