If you use the semicolon correctly, it can make your writing sound more sophisticated.Follow these easy steps if you want to know how to use the tricky semicolon the right way.
Step 1: One complete sentence is what you should write.
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 a similar 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 semicolon.
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 is the sentence you should write.
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 in 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 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 another sentence that is 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 semicolon.
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: There are two ways to connect one sentence with internal and simple words.
Martha Mary Louise is my cousin and she is the most talented and original cook I have ever met.
Step 10: Write the sentence.
It's possible to keep it simple.I ate an entire apple pie last night.
Step 11: A transitional phrase or conjunctive adverb is a good way to write a related sentence.
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: The two need to be connected with a letter.
I ate an entire apple pie last night and felt sick when I woke up.
Step 13: Don't use a semicolon instead of a colon.
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: Don't use a semi-colon instead of a commas.
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."