Grammar for writing: using semicolons to link main clauses

English

Grammar for Writing

a clause that doesn't make sense on its own

You always need a capital letter after a semicolon.

You need a capital letter after a semicolon if it is the start of a new clause.

You need a capital letter after a semicolon if the first word is a proper noun.

You should never use a capital letter after a semicolon.

A semicolon joins two main clauses; they have to be linked or related to each other.

You do not need a capital letter after a semicolon unless the first word is a proper noun (the name of a person or place).

You should use a semicolon to separate a subordinate clause from a main clause.

Hard work has many benefits; one of which is success.

Summer is my favourite time of year; The weather is (mostly) glorious!

Tears of joy ran down her face; she was free.

Which of these sentences use semicolons correctly?

Is this sentence compound, complex or simple? "It is never too late to master your grammar."

Is this sentence compound, complex or simple? "Because it improves the clarity and quality of your writing, you should use a variety of sentence structures where you can."

Is this sentence compound, complex or simple? "Deliberate practice and recall of core knowledge will help you to write more accurately so you should make a start now!"

Is this sentence compound, complex or simple? "Your writing communicates your opinions and ideas; your thoughts matter."

Which key word(s) match the following definition: "contain more than one main clause and they are joined by a conjunction (or semicolon)"

Which key word(s) match the following definition: "contains one main clause"

Which key word(s) match the following definition: "contains at least one subordinate clause"

Which key word(s) match the following definition: "doesn't contain a main clause and can't stand alone as a complete thought"

Starter Quiz