Semicolons
Summary
The semicolon links two closely related independent clauses and functions like a period-strength pause without fully separating the ideas. On ACT English, the key rule is simple: use a semicolon only between complete sentences, and never pair it with a coordinating conjunction such as and, but, or, or nor.
- The semicolon sits between a period and a comma in strength and is used to connect related ideas more tightly than a period would.
- Its primary ACT use is joining two independent clauses that could each stand alone as full sentences.
- Although semicolons can separate complicated list items that already contain commas, that use is not a major ACT focus here.
- A semicolon is incorrect when the material before or after it is not a complete sentence, so dependent openings cannot be separated with semicolons.
- A semicolon should not be used together with a coordinating conjunction from the FANBOYS group, because the conjunction already performs the linking job.
- To solve ACT punctuation questions, test whether both sides can stand alone as sentences; if they can, a semicolon may work, and if not, eliminate it.
- In the sample question, the correct choice uses a semicolon between two complete, closely related sentences: one about Sarah's limited time and one restating that she rarely went out.
Chapters
00:00
What a Semicolon Is and How It Functions
00:35
Core ACT Rule: Join Two Independent Clauses
01:39
Less Common Use: Separating Complex List Items
02:28
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Semicolons
03:27
Applying the Rule in an ACT Question