Answer key for Semicolon or Comma Worksheet 1, showing corrected sentences with proper punctuation.

To complete the "Give it a shot" section of your worksheet, you need to write six original sentences that use a semicolon correctly.

Here is the logic for using a semicolon:
1. Connecting two related sentences: You use a semicolon to join two independent clauses (complete thoughts) that are closely related in meaning. It acts like a soft period.
* *Example:* I have a big test tomorrow; I can't go out tonight.
2. With transition words: You use a semicolon before words like *however, therefore, consequently,* or *meanwhen* when they connect two complete sentences.
* *Example:* It was raining hard; however, we still played soccer.

Here are six original sentences that follow these rules:

1. My brother loves playing video games; he spends hours online every weekend.
2. I wanted to buy the new shoes; unfortunately, I didn't have enough money.
3. The sun began to set behind the mountains; the sky turned a bright shade of orange.
4. She studied very hard for the history exam; consequently, she got an A+.
5. We can go to the movies later; first, we need to finish our chores.
6. He doesn't like eating vegetables; he prefers fruit and meat instead.