Concept 3

Use semicolons to join closely related independent clauses; use with conjunctive adverbs when appropriate.

Core Idea

A semicolon can join two related independent clauses, and it often appears before a conjunctive adverb such as "however" or "therefore."

Understanding

Rule: Semicolons do not replace every comma. They work only when both sides are complete sentences.

  • When a conjunctive adverb connects those sentences, ACT usually wants a semicolon before the adverb and a comma after it.

Step by Step

  1. Check that the words on both sides could each stand alone as complete sentences.
  2. If a conjunctive adverb such as "however" or "therefore" appears, put a semicolon before it and a comma after it.
  3. Reject any choice that puts a semicolon before a fragment or uses it as if it were only a stronger comma.

Misconceptions

  • Using a semicolon before a dependent clause just because there is a pause.
  • Forgetting the comma after a conjunctive adverb such as "however."
Question

Worked Example

Which choice best completes the sentence?

"The first prototype looked sleek _____ it blocked too much light in the classroom."

Select an answer to see the explanation