Final answer:
Correct use of commas, semicolons, and conjunctions is vital for writing clarity and preventing grammar errors like run-on sentences and comma splices. Understanding when and where to use punctuation can greatly improve the structure and understanding of sentences.
Step-by-step explanation:
Correct punctuation is essential for clear and effective writing. The use of commas, semicolons, and conjunctions helps prevent run-on sentences, comma splices, and enhances the readability of a text. To avoid common mistakes, it's essential to know when to insert missing commas or omit incorrectly placed ones. For instance, I finally found my keys, and I got to work just in time. requires a comma before the conjunction 'and' because it connects two independent clauses. Similarly, Mrs. Contreras threw out her old coffee table and cleaned the carpet. does not need a comma before 'and' because what follows is not an independent clause.
Comma splices occur when two independent clauses are incorrectly joined by a comma without a coordinating conjunction. They can be fixed by adding a conjunction, substituting a semicolon, or separating into two sentences. Run-on sentences can be addressed by incorporating punctuations like periods, semicolons, or adding coordinating conjunctions. Inserting missing semicolons is necessary when you have closely related independent clauses not joined by a conjunction. For example, They gave the fire marshal a kickback to look the other way; consequently, the building went up in flames the very next year.