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Codes: P-C, P-C0, P-CS, P-SC

P-C          Comma error          

There are many different rules for comma use. The most common errors are (a) missing an APA serial comma in lists and (b) missing a comma after introductory words or phrases that come before the main clause.

Example with Error (a): Each student was given a UCQ sweater, a pencil case and a backpack.
Example with Correction (a): Each student was given a UCQ sweater, a pencil case, and a backpack.
Example with Error (b): By the time the nurse had returned to the room the patient had been moved.
Example with Correction (b): By the time the nurse returned to the room, the patient had been moved.

For more, see our LCGuide.

P-Co          Colon

You need to have an independent clause before a colon.

Example with Error: Databases used in the search included: CINAHL and PubMed.
Example with Correction: The following databases were used in the literature search: CINAHL and PubMed.

For more, see our LCGuide.

P-CS          Comma splice

A comma cannot be used between two fully independent clauses (sentences). You can catch this error by paying attention to the subject and verb in each group of words.

Example with Error: Qatar’s weather is hot during the summer months, as a result, many avoid going outdoors for physical activity.
Example with Correction: Qatar’s weather is hot during the summer months; as a result, many avoid going outdoors for physical activity.

For more, see our LCGuide. 

P-SC          Semicolon

Use a semicolon to (a) join two independent clauses when the when the second clause begins with a transition word or phrase and (b) to separate items in a list when one or more of the items has a comma.

Example with Error (a): She knows Coca-Cola is bad for her, however, she still drinks it everyday.
Example with Correction (a): She knows Coca-Cola is bad for her; however, she still drinks it everyday.

Example with Error (b): I want to study, learn as much as I can about interesting topics, such as anatomy, pathophysiology, and academic writing; and make many friends.

Example with Correction (b): I want to study; learn as much as I can about interesting topics, such as anatomy, pathophysiology, and academic writing; and make many friends.

For more, see our LCGuide.