In chapter 34 of Rules for Writers the main focus is the correct use of semicolons. The chapter teaches that a semicolon should be used "between closely related independent clauses not joined with a coordinating conjunction."(291) Usually, when more than one related independent clause is used in one sentence, it is linked with a coordinating conjuction; still there are times that the relation between the clauses is clear and there is no need for a coordinating conjunction, that's when you'd use a semicolon. The chapter also tells us that the semicolon must be used instead of a comma when a coordinating conjuction is omitted.
Another instance the chapter teaches that it is okay to use a semicolon in is between independent clauses linked with a transitional expression (conjuctive adverbs or transitional phrases). When a transitional phrase is used, such as "in fact," the semicolon would be used before that and the transitional phrase is usually followed by a comma. When using the semicolon with a conjuctive adverb, the semicolon would go between the clauses. Semicolons should also be used between items when listing a series containing internal punctuation, using semicolons over commas in these instances help the reader sort out the major groupings in the sentence. The final part of this chapter focuses on avoiding misuse of the semicolon. In most of these instances the semicolon that is corrected in the example is replaced by a comma, susch as between an appositive and the word it refers to, or between a subordinate clause and the rest of the sentence.
The information contained in this chapter will help me tremendously in tightening my sentences and avoiding run-ons. The semicolon has always been something that has interested me, but I never knew the correct use for it. Now that I know how to appropriately use the semicolon, I feel that my sentences will come out appearing a lot tighter, and they will be easier to follow for the readers.
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