27 Steps: #12

With respect to item 11, especially avoid the comma splice, which is the use of a comma to separate two independent clauses without the use of a semicolon or a conjunction (such as "and," "but," "for"). Example: "I like this class, the teacher is a sweetheart." That would be a comma splice -- incorrect usage. Put a semicolon in there or an "and" or other conjunction between the comma, and it's correct usage. Examples: "I like this class, and the teacher is a sweetheart." Or: "I hate this class, but the teacher is a sweetheart." Or: "I like this class; the teacher is a sweetheart."