Run-on Sentences and Sentence Fragments

One common type of run-on sentence is a comma splice. What is a comma splice?

A comma splice occurs when two independent clauses are joined with just a comma.

Correcting Run-On Sentences How do you fix a run-on sentences by using a comma and a coordinating conjunction?

A comma, paired with a coordinating conjunction (e.g., "and," "but," or "or"), corrects a run-on sentence. This method emphasizes the relationship between the two clauses. Revision example: I love to write papers, and I would write one every day if I had the time.

Identify if the words in italics make a complete sentence or a sentence fragment: Over 25% of all applicants held an advanced degree. A. Complete sentence B. Sentence fragment

A. Complete sentence

Which of the following is a complete sentence? A. I coded the data and discovered five themes. B. The researchers who named the theory. C. Demonstrates innovative research and promising results.

A. I coded the data and discovered five themes.

Which of the following sentences is punctuated correctly? A. She participated in all the discussion posts; therefore, she earned a high participation grade. B. She studied hard in the course, she improved her skills. C. He read a lot, thus, he is a strong reader.

A. She participated in all the discussion posts; therefore, she earned a high participation grade.

Identify which of the following can be used to connect two independent clauses and correct a run-on sentence (choose all that apply): A. No punctuation B. A comma and a coordinating conjunction C. A period D. A comma E. A semicolon

B. A comma and a coordinating conjunction C. A period E. A semicolon

Which of the following is a complete sentence? A. The participants, who were all from Minneapolis, MN and had run a business for at least 3 years. B. Researchers have asserted that treating employees with respect creates a healthier work environment. C. By focusing on literature in the last 5 years narrowed down the search.

B. Researchers have asserted that treating employees with respect creates a healthier work environment.

Identify if the words in italics make a complete sentence or a sentence fragment: Applications to graduate schools often include many requirements. Such as GRE scores, college transcripts, and personal statements. ​ A. Complete sentence B. Sentence fragment

B. Sentence fragment

Which of the following sentences is punctuated correctly? A. I wrote the introduction then I wrote the body of the essay. B. I used secondary data I compiled all the data. C. I found a good deal of literature on the topic, and I organized it into common themes.

C. I found a good deal of literature on the topic, and I organized it into common themes.

Correcting Run-On Sentences How do you fix a run-on sentences by using a semi-colon?

Correcting Run-On Sentences Inserting a semicolon between independent clauses creates a grammatically correct sentence. Using a semicolon is a stylistic choice that establishes a close relationship between the two sentences. Revision example: I love to write papers; I would write one every day if I had the time.

Correcting Run-On Sentences A run-on sentence can be fixed by connecting its parts correctly. There are several ways to connect independent clauses. How do you fix a run-on sentences by using a period?

Correcting Run-On Sentences The easiest way to fix a run-on is to split the sentence into smaller sentences using a period. This revision works especially well with longer sentences. Check, however, to make sure that this solution does not result in short, choppy sentences. Revision example: I love to write papers. I would write one every day if I had the time.

Here is an example of a fragment with a missing predicate, or action: Example of a fragment: The doctors, who were using peer-reviewed research articles that contributed to the body of knowledge in their fields, which was obstetrics. Notice here that although the sentence is quite long, it still contains no action (What are the doctors doing?). Once identified, the sentence can be corrected easily.

Revision: The doctors, who were using peer-reviewed research articles that contributed to the body of knowledge in their field, improved their knowledge of obstetrics.

Here is an example of a fragment with a missing subject. Example of a fragment: Shows no improvement in any of the vital signs. The sentence above is a fragment since there is no subject (Who shows no improvement?). Fragments can be corrected by identifying the missing element and including it.

Revision: The patient shows no improvement in any of the vital signs.

Sentence Fragments A sentence fragment is a string of words that does not form a complete sentence. What does this mean?

There is a necessary component of a complete sentence missing. This missing component may be a subject (usually a noun) or a predicate (verb or verb phrase) and/or when the sentence does not express a complete idea.

Some comma splices occur when a writer attempts to use a transitional expression in the middle of a sentence. Example of a comma splice: The results of the study were inconclusive, therefore more research needs to be done on the topic. How would you fix this?

To fix this type of comma splice, use a semicolon before the transitional expression and add a comma after it. Revision: The results of the study were inconclusive; therefore, more research needs to be done on the topic.

Correcting Run-On Sentences How do you fix a run-on sentences by using a subordinating conjunction?

Turn one of the independent clauses into a dependent clause. A subordinating conjunction (e.g., "because," "unless," and "although") connects two clauses to create a complex sentence. This option works to cement the relationship between the two parts of the sentence and may improve the flow of the clauses. Example: Because I love to write papers, I would write one every day if I had the time.

What is a run-on sentence?

When two or more independent clauses (also known as complete sentences) are connected improperly.