1. Using Semicolons
Semicolons look like this: ;

2. Using Semicolons Semicolons are used for 3 purposes:
To connect independent clauses without using a conjunction
To connect independent clauses using a conjunctive adverb
To join items in a series when one or more of the items includes a comma

3. Using Semicolons
Clearly, it is impossible to understand the rules for using semicolons unless you can identify an INDEPENDENT CLAUSE.
An INDEPENDENT CLAUSE is a group of words that includes the following:
1. a subject
2. a verb
3. a complete thought

4. Using Semicolons
Tell whether each of the following is an independent clause.
When Carl called for a pizza.
My friends and I enjoy going to the lake.
Working on their project for hours.
Playing videogames is one of my favorite pastimes.

5. Using Semicolons
To connect independent clauses without using a conjunction:
It was a beautiful day; the friends decided to head to the park right away.

6. Using Semicolons
To connect independent clauses using a conjunctive adverb:
Roberto, Tyesha, Heather, and Carl may not agree on sports; however, they did agree it was a beautiful day.

7. Using Semicolons
To join items in a series when one or more of the items includes a comma:
Carl’s grandmother brought them a picnic basket with turkey, ham, and tuna fish sandwiches; potato salad; and cans of soda, juice, and iced tea.

8. Using Semicolons
Punctuate the sentence by adding a semicolon and a comma when needed.
Yesterday afternoon was absolutely miserable the rain poured down and turn the yard to mud.

9. Using Semicolons
Punctuate the sentence by adding a semicolon and a comma when needed.
The weather was really terrible nonetheless I managed to have a good day.

10. Using Semicolons
Punctuate the sentence by adding a semicolon and a comma when needed.
I found many things to do, like reading books newspapers and magazines watching a movie and drawing in my sketchbook.

11. Using Semicolons
Punctuate the sentence by adding a semicolon and a comma when needed.
I tried to do some homework however I ended up sound asleep.

12. Using Semicolons Remember:
Unless separating items in a series, a semicolon must have an independent clause on both sides!
Never capitalize the letter after a semicolon unless it’s a proper noun.