Fixing a Comma Splice
Question
The storm rolled in quickly, we barely had time to bring in the lawn furniture.
Answer choices
- ; we
- we
- NO CHANGE
- , and we
A Correct answer: A) ; we
Both halves of the sentence are independent clauses. Joining them with only a comma is a splice. Two valid fixes appear here: a semicolon (which directly joins independent clauses) or a comma plus "and." The semicolon is grammatically correct and is the answer; the comma-plus-and option also works grammatically but the semicolon version is the closest direct repair of the comma splice.
The other options either introduce a grammatical error or change the intended meaning. The ACT consistently rewards the most concise, grammatically correct option.
Read the sentence with each option substituted in. The version that preserves meaning while obeying the underlying rule is the correct answer; on the ACT, that is almost always the shortest option that still works.
The underlying rule
Two independent clauses joined by a comma alone form a comma splice — a punctuation error. The fix is either to use a semicolon, to add a coordinating conjunction (and, but, so), or to make one clause subordinate.
Why each wrong answer is wrong
- B) we: This option either preserves the comma splice or omits punctuation entirely, creating a run-on.
- C) NO CHANGE: This option either preserves the comma splice or omits punctuation entirely, creating a run-on.
- D) , and we: This option either preserves the comma splice or omits punctuation entirely, creating a run-on.
Study tip
When you see a comma between two complete sentences, three fixes are valid: (1) replace with a semicolon, (2) add a coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS), or (3) add a subordinating conjunction to make one clause dependent.
More Easy Sentence Structure
- Identifying a Sentence FragmentAlthough the weather forecast predicted heavy rain. The crowd at the festival kept
- Parallel Structure in a ListThe job requires writing reports, attending meetings, and to manage a small team of
- Repairing a Run-On SentenceThe library closes at nine the students rushed to finish their group project.
- Combining with SubordinationThe painter finished her mural last week. It depicts the history of the neighborhoo
- Fixing a Comma SpliceThe storm rolled in quickly, we barely had time to bring in the lawn furniture.