Run-on Sentences

A run-on sentence occurs when two or more independent clauses (complete thoughts) are joined together without proper punctuation or coordination. This can result in confusion for the reader and disrupt the flow of the writing. There are two main types of run-on sentences: fused sentences and comma splices.

Fused Sentences (Run-Ons)

• Definition: Fused sentences happen when two independent clauses are joined without any punctuation or coordinating conjunction.
• Example: I woke up late I missed the bus.
• Correction: I woke up late, and I missed the bus.

Comma Splices

• Definition: Comma splices occur when two independent clauses are connected only by a comma.
• Example: The sun was setting, it was time to go home.
• Correction: The sun was setting, so it was time to go home.

Fixes

To fix run-on sentences, you can use the following methods:

• Period or Semicolon: Separate the independent clauses into two sentences or use a semicolon to connect them if they are closely related.
  • Incorrect: I like pizza it is my favorite food.
  • Correct: I like pizza. It is my favorite food.
  • Correct: I like pizza; it is my favorite food.
• Conjunctions: Use coordinating conjunctions (and, but, or, nor, for, so, yet) to connect independent clauses.
  • Incorrect: She wanted to go to the concert, she didn't have a ticket.
  • Correct: She wanted to go to the concert, but she didn't have a ticket.
• Subordination: Use subordinating conjunctions (although, because, since, while, if) to make one clause dependent on the other.
  • Incorrect: I was tired, I went to bed early.
  • Correct: Because I was tired, I went to bed early.

Conclusion

Understanding and correcting run-on sentences is crucial for effective writing and communication. It helps improve clarity and ensures that each idea is expressed in a coherent and organized manner.