Semi-Colon Rules

Rule 1 -A semicolon can replace a period between two closely related independent clauses. Examples: -Call me tomorrow; you can give me an answer then. -I’m looking for my book; where do you suppose I put it?

Rule 2 -If there is a conjunctive adverb linking two independent clauses, you should use a semicolon. Some conjunctive adverbs are: moreover, nevertheless, however, otherwise, therefore, then, finally, likewise and consequently. Example: -The students had been advised against walking alone at night; however, Cathy decided walking wasn’t dangerous if it was early in the evening.

Rule 3 -Super Comma Rule: Use a semicolon to make a list of items that are separated by a comma. This often occurs when listing names, dates, locations, and descriptions. Examples: -We had students from Lima, Peru; Santiago, Chile; and Caracas, Venezuela. -Her classmates were attending college for a variety of fields, including Sarah, who wanted to study biology; Samuel, who wanted to study psychology; and Seth, who wanted to study mathematics.

Examples 1. I like chocolate however I don’t like dark chocolate. 2. I can’t eat strawberries they give me a rash. 3. I am really disgusted with my essay therefore I am going to revise it. 4. The crowd was too rowdy consequently the band quit playing and walked off the stage.