How to Use Semicolons in Titles

A semicolon is punctuation that separates to independent clauses, designed to flow together but that would form sentence fragments on a standalone basis. In fact, a semicolon is one of the most commonly misused pieces of punctuation in online and print writing. Figuring out how a semicolon fits into a title, however, is no easy feat.

Instructions

    • 1

      Proofread your titles. Look for clauses where the first part of the statement says one thing and the second part of the statement clarifies it. These are the most commonly overlooked areas of title designing when using semicolons.

    • 2

      Write several variations of your title. Consider using a semicolon in each. For example, your title could be "I Write with Microsoft Word; Others Write with Pen or Pencil." The clauses are separate, but cannot exist on a standalone basis without becoming a fragment. Of course, semicolons are also appropriate for blog titles like, "I tried; however I failed." Semicolons help writers create long-tailed keywords that help with search engine optimization by including more information effectively in the title, reducing web competition for similar keywords used by other authors.

    • 3

      Review your title for comma use. In many instances, writers will place a comma where a semicolon is appropriate. If all else should fail, consider using grammar-checking software found in Microsoft Word or standalone internet programs that review grammar use.

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