Use a semicolon to join two closely related independent clauses without a conjunction
Use a semicolon before a conjunctive adverb such as however, therefore, or meanwhile when joining two independent clauses
Use a semicolon to separate items in a list when the items already contain commas
Use a semicolon between independent clauses linked by transitional phrases
Use a semicolon in complex lists to improve clarity
Do not use a semicolon to join a dependent clause to an independent clause
Do not use a semicolon after words like because, although, if, or when unless the clause is complete
Do not use a semicolon where a comma or period is more appropriate