TAKE FIVE: Punctuation Test Tips 1: You can connect 2 independent clauses in 3 different ways, depending on what words are between them: No word? Use a semicolon. I went to the store; she drove to the mall. Shorter conjunction (and, but, or, so)? Use a comma. I went to the store, and she drove to the mall. Longer conjunctive adverb (however, therefore)? Use a semicolon before and a comma after. I went to the store; however, she drove to the mall. 2: There are only 3 semicolon rules: Connect 2 independent clauses with no words in between Connect 2 independent clauses with an adverb like “however” Separate items that already use commas in a list or series What this means: If you’re not connecting independent clauses or breaking up items with commas in a list … don’t use a semicolon!