Key Concepts: An independent clause is a group of words that includes a subject and a verb and forms a complete thought.
Which punctuation mark can be used between two or more independent clauses that are related or connected in some way? Semicolon
Writers use semicolons to create an internal connection, primarily between related independent clauses.
Which types of clauses should NOT be joined with a semicolon? Dependent clauses
In which three contexts is it appropriate to use a colon?
- To introduce a list.
- To clarify or explain a thought.
- To introduce a quote.
Practice: Use a semicolon to combine the two sentences below.
The cat spotted the penguins.
They were waddling around, just as he had imagined.
New Sentence: The cat spotted the penguins; they were waddling around, just as he had imagined.
Combine the two sentences below. Use a colon to clarify or further explain a thought.
There was one thing the cat couldn’t wait to do.
He couldn’t wait to see the penguins dive into the water.
New Sentence: There was one thing the cat couldn’t wait to do: he couldn’t wait to see the penguins dive into the water.
Combine the two sentences below. Use a colon to introduce a list.
The cat noticed several things in the penguin exhibit.
There were rocks, icy pools, and playful penguins sliding around.
New Sentence: The cat noticed several things in the penguin exhibit: there were rocks, icy pools, and playful penguins sliding around.
Combine the two sentences below. Use a colon to introduce a quote.
The cat watched the penguins and thought of something his mother always said.
His mother said, "Adventure is out there, waiting for you."
New Sentence: The cat watched the penguins and thought of something his mother always said: "Adventure is out there, waiting for you."