The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
them two separate sentences. You can use a semicolon to show a close relationship between the two complete thoughts. Alternatively, you can use a comma followed by a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so). Using only a comma to join two independent clauses results in a comma splice, which is incorrect.
If you are connecting an independent clause to a dependent clause or a descriptive phrase, a comma is often the correct choice, especially if the dependent part comes first. A colon is used correctly when an independent clause is followed by a list, a quotation, or an explanation that clarifies the initial clause. The key is that the part of the sentence before the colon must be a complete thought. By carefully examining the clauses and their relationship, you can systematically eliminate incorrect choices and identify the one that follows these established grammatical rules.
