Using Semicolons

Semicolons help you connect closely related ideas when a style mark stronger than a comma is needed. By using semicolons effectively, you can make your writing sound more sophisticated.

Connect closely related ideas

1.      Link two independent clauses to connect closely related ideas

• ·       Some people write with a word processor; others write with a pen or pencil.

2.      Link clauses connected by conjunctive adverbs or transitional phrases to connect closely related ideas

• ·       But however they choose to write, people are allowed to make their own decisions; as a result, many people swear by their writing methods.

3.      Link lists where the items contain commas to avoid confusion between list items

• ·       There are basically two ways to write: with a pen or pencil, which is inexpensive and easily accessible; or by computer and printer, which is more expensive but quick and neat.

4.      Link lengthy clauses or clauses with commas to avoid confusion between clauses

• ·       Some people write with a word processor, typewriter, or a computer; but others, for different reasons, choose to write with a pen or pencil.

Rules for Using Semicolons

A semicolon is most commonly used to link (in a single sentence) two independent clauses that are closely related in thought.

1.      When a semicolon is used to join two or more ideas (parts) in a sentence, those ideas are then given equal position or rank.

• ·       Some people write with a word processor; others write with a pen or pencil.

2.      Use a semicolon between two independent clauses that are connected by conjunctive adverbs or transitional phrases.

• ·       But however they choose to write, people are allowed to make their own decisions; as a result, many people swear by their writing methods.

3.      Use a semicolon between items in a list or series if any of the items contain commas.

• ·       There are basically two ways to write: with a pen or pencil, which is inexpensive and easily accessible; or by computer and printer, which is more expensive but quick and neat.

4.      Use a semicolon between independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction if the clauses are already punctuated with commas or if the clauses are lengthy.

• ·       Some people write with a word processor, typewriter, or a computer; but others, for different reasons, choose to write with a pen or pencil.

http://writing.wisc.edu/Handbook/Semicolons.html