Semicolons are often misunderstood and misused in writing. For many, this punctuation mark seems like a complex blend of a period and a comma. However, when used correctly, semicolons can enhance the clarity and flow of your writing.

When writing for web (online articles, website content, social media posts, or blog posts), you should consider removing semicolons for two reasons. First, many readers are unfamiliar with semicolons. Semicolons create complexity within sentences. This intimidates people that require an easier reading level. Second, many writers simply don’t know how or where to use them correctly. Semicolons sit at the top of my list for misused marks when I’m editing client content.

When to Use a Semicolon

Joining ideas that are both equal and related, the semicolons have specific grammatical functions.

Between Independent Clauses

First, you can use a semicolon to join two related independent clauses. This replaces a comma and a coordinating conjunction. Examples of coordinating conjunctions are and, but, or, nor, for, so, and yet. If you only have a dependent clause linked to an independent clause, use a comma.

Example: Some people eat hot dogs; others prefer hamburgers.

This is the most common use for semicolons and probably the one most recognizable to readers.

With a Conjunctive Adverb

Second, you can use a semicolon to replace conjunctive adverbs and transitional expressions. Examples include for example, for instance, accordingly, besides, and furthermore. In this instance, the semicolon replaces the period between the related sentences.

Example: However you eat a hot dog, it’s important to customize it; as a result, you’ll enjoy the savory, personalized experience of pure joy.

I often find that writers shy away from this situation because it’s difficult to punctuate properly. Also, the complexity may not suit easier reading levels.

Dividing Lists

Third, you can place a semicolon in a series of independent clauses that contain commas. You often see this in a long series with lists within lists.

Example: You can find two types of hot dogs at most state fairs: with a bun, which is the traditional format and easy to add condiments; or inside a cornmeal wrapper, known as a corn dog and usually placed on a stick.

You often see this when people are describing multiple steps to a process or lists of things that need to be connected.

Common Mistakes for Semicolons

Whenever I’m proofreading content, I look for these common semicolon mistakes.

  • Many writers mistakenly place semicolons between an independent and a dependent clause.
  • In lists, semicolons often find their way between the wrong phrases.
  •  Often, I find people capitalize the word right after the first clause. This is only correct if that word is a proper noun.
  • Writers sometimes forget to remove the conjunction if they switch two sentences into one joined by a semicolon.

If you are writing for the web, the instances where semicolons can be used usually create a complex sentence. For online readers, this deters anyone who needs an easier reading level to consume information. So, semicolons should only be used if your target audience is more likely to recognize and understand them (a reading level at high school or above). Familiarize yourself with literacy levels in the United States (they’re likely lower than you assume).

Why Most People Use Semicolons Incorrectly

Many writers shy away from using semicolons because they are unsure of the rules governing their use. This uncertainty often leads to two common mistakes:

  • Overuse: Some writers sprinkle semicolons throughout their work without understanding their purpose, leading to confusing sentences.
  • Underuse: Others avoid semicolons altogether, missing opportunities to enhance their writing’s coherence and flow.

The key to mastering semicolons lies in understanding their role in connecting related ideas more closely than a period would, yet less intimately than a comma might within a single sentence.

Semicolons and Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

While semicolons can improve the readability of a text, they aren’t particularly beneficial for SEO. Here’s why:

  1. Complexity and Readability: Search engines prioritize content that is easy to read and understand. Overusing semicolons can make sentences unnecessarily complex, potentially reducing readability and user engagement.
  2. Keyword Optimization: SEO relies heavily on keyword placement and density. Semicolons, by complicating sentence structure, might disrupt the natural flow of keywords, affecting how search engines interpret your content.
  3. Content Clarity: Because semicolons are often misused, they can sometimes lead to unclear or ambiguous sentences, which may confuse search algorithms and readers alike.

The Takeaway

Using semicolons effectively can sometimes enhance your writing by connecting related ideas and clarifying complex lists. However, it’s essential to strike a balance to maintain readability, especially in digital content where SEO plays a crucial role. By understanding when and how to use semicolons, you can improve the quality of your writing while ensuring it remains accessible to both human readers and search engines.

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