I1: Semicolons with Independent Clauses
I1: Semicolons with Independent Clauses: Use a semicolon to separate closely related independent clauses. See Writing for Success Section 3.2 p. 108 or the following: http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/marks/semicolon.htm
The desire to call Olga for a date did not stop with Winston, it also ran across Edgar’s mind.
(Incorrect) – This is a comma-splice run-on.
The desire to call Olga for a date did not stop with Winston. It also ran across Edgar’s mind.
(Ok) – A period works, but a hard break may not be necessary.
The desire to call Olga for a date did not stop with Winston; it also ran across Edgar’s mind.
(Correct) – A semicolon is halfway between, still part of the same sentence.
Back when I was a kid, there was only one channel made for kids, now there are ten.
(Incorrect) – This is a comma-splice run-on.
Back when I was a kid, there was only one channel made for kids. Now there are ten.
(Ok) – A period works, but a hard break may not be necessary.
Back when I was a kid, there was only one channel made for kids; now there are ten.
(Correct) – A semicolon is halfway between, still part of the same sentence.