C1 Stage 2: Linked sentences
Punctuate long sentences so they are easy to read
Punctuation for long sentences: semicolons, colons and commas
You can use commas, semicolons and colons so a long sentence is easy to follow.
This guide is for B2 writers moving to C1. It is a stage 2 skill: write 2-3 sentences (25-90 words).
When to use punctuation in long sentences
Whenever a sentence gets long, or two sentences are very close in meaning. Read the sentence aloud: where you take a breath, a mark often belongs.
Punctuation in long sentences: how to do it
A long sentence needs small marks so the reader can follow it. Put a comma after an opening phrase ('In many homes, ...'), around extra information you could take out ('The plan, which started in May, ...') and between the items of a list. A semicolon (;) joins two complete sentences that belong together: 'The bus was late; we missed the start.' A colon (:) comes after a complete sentence and introduces an explanation, an example or a list: 'The reason is simple: it is cheap.' Never put a comma between a subject and its verb, and never join two full sentences with only a comma.
Useful language for punctuation in long sentences
- The reason is simple: ...
- The consequence is clear: ...
- ...; however, ...
- ...; by contrast, ...
- ...; moreover, ...
Example of punctuation in long sentences
In many homes, the day begins with a phone, not a conversation; the habit seems harmless, but it takes the quiet time that once belonged to breakfast. The cost is easy to see: families who share no morning time slowly drift apart.
Topic: Breakfast in busy families
How the BetterWrite coach checks punctuation in long sentences
The BetterWrite coach checks 4 points for this skill, plus accuracy and staying on topic, and quotes your own words when one is not there yet.
Try it
Write 2-3 sentences about library opening hours. Make at least one sentence long, and use at least one semicolon or colon correctly.
Write 25-90 words (2-3 sentences).