Usage Rules:
Use a semicolon (;):
- Between two closely related independent clauses (complete sentences)
- Before conjunctive adverbs (however, therefore, etc.) when they join two independent clauses
Use a comma (,):
- Before coordinating conjunctions (FANBOYS: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) joining two independent clauses
- To set off nonrestrictive elements (extra information)
- In lists and other standard comma situations
Exercise: Comma or Semicolon?
Insert either a comma (,) or a semicolon (;) in the blank space. Only one option is correct for each sentence.
