A comma splice occurs when a comma incorrectly joins two independent clauses. It is considered a type of run-on sentence.
Examples of a Comma Splice
I have to go to the store, I won’t be long.
This party is boring, I’m leaving.
How to Fix a Comma Splice
Here are the most common ways to fix a comma splice:
Use a period to separate the independent clauses:
I have to go to the store. I won’t be long.
Use a semicolon to join the independent clauses:
I have to go to the store; I won’t be long.
Use a comma and a coordinating conjunction to join the clauses:
I have to go to the store, but I won’t be long
This party is boring, so I’m leaving.
Use a subordinating conjunction to connect the clauses:
I’m leaving because this party is boring.
Because this party is boring, I’m leaving.
Use a semicolon and a conjunctive adverb:
I have to go to the store; however, I won’t be long.
As with run-on sentences, the best option for fixing comma splices depends on your intended meaning. Different fixes make different meanings, sometimes subtle, other times more distinct. For example, look at the following comma splice:
Mom is making her casserole, I am staying to eat.
Now look at the difference in meaning between the following two revisions:
Mom is making her casserole, so I’m going to stay.
Mom is making her casserole, but I’m going to stay.
In the first revision, the speaker is staying because of the casserole; in the second, the speaker is staying despite the casserole.
Why Is it a Problem, and How Does it Affect Your Audience?
There is no logical reason a comma splice should be regarded as an error; in fact, many fiction writers use comma splices to great effect. A comma splice violates only a writing convention, but breaking with this convention unknowingly is a disservice to your readers. Informed readers are quick to notice a comma splice, and they are adept at reading the context of the work to determine whether it represents an artistic choice or a lack of knowledge. Unnecessary interruptions annoy readers and lower the perceived credibility of the writer, so break the rule only when you do so intentionally.