Which describes a comma splice and a correct fix?

• A. A comma splice joins two independent clauses with a comma; fix with a semicolon, a period, or a conjunction.
• B. A comma splice uses a semicolon between independent clauses.
• C. A comma splice uses a colon between independent clauses.
• D. A comma splice is when a dependent clause is used after a comma; fix by removing the comma.

Answer: (A)

A comma splice happens when two independent clauses are joined with only a comma. Each clause could stand alone as a complete sentence, so linking them with just a comma creates an awkward or incorrect connection. The best fix is to replace that comma with a semicolon, end the first clause with a period, or add a coordinating conjunction after the comma (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so). For example:

I finished my homework; I went for a walk.

I finished my homework. I went for a walk.

I finished my homework, and I went for a walk.

These options fix the problem by properly connecting or separating the two complete thoughts. The other described uses aren’t about the splice: a semicolon can correctly join independent clauses, a colon isn’t the right connector here, and a comma after a dependent clause signals a different issue.