Final answer:
Use semicolons to connect closely related independent clauses and to clarify elements in a series that contain commas. Do not use commas to connect independent clauses; instead, use a period, a semicolon, or add a coordinating conjunction. Remember that semicolons act as a bridge between closely related ideas and are not used to separate elements within an independent clause.
Step-by-step explanation:
To correctly use commas and semicolons in your writing, you'll need to understand their different purposes. A semicolon is used to connect two independent clauses that are closely related in thought or when the second clause restates the first. Commas are used with coordinating conjunctions, subordinating conjunctions, and introductory phrases. When you have a complex series where the elements themselves contain commas, a semicolon can be used to separate these elements clearly.
Here's an example of how to correctly use a semicolon: 'It rained heavily during the afternoon; however, we still managed to have a picnic.' In this sentence, the semicolon separates two independent clauses connected by the transitional phrase 'however.' The comma after 'however' is correct because it is an introductory phrase to the second independent clause.
Avoid using semicolons to separate words or phrases from the independent clause and do not use them to connect independent clauses without a coordinating conjunction unless they are closely related or the second clause restates the first. Remember also not to use a comma to connect independent clauses. This results in a comma splice, which can be corrected by using a semicolon, period, or adding a coordinating conjunction. For example, 'I finally found my keys, and I got to work just in time.' instead of 'I finally found my keys, I got to work just in time.'