Run-on and Fragment
In formal writing, we must write in complete sentences, and we want to increase the level of sophistication. In our efforts to construct sophisticated sentences, however, we sometimes fail to include proper punctuation. When this happens, we create run-ons and comma splices. We must pay close attention to our sentence structures, because run-ons and comma splices will quickly destroy an otherwise good piece of writing.
Remember that every independent clause has a subject and verb set, so a run-on sentence has more than one subject-verb set without proper punctuation between the sets.
Example run-on: Mary went to the store she bought some bread.
Corrected: Mary went to the store; she bought some bread.
Example run-on: Mary went to the store and she bought some bread.
Corrected: Mary went to the store, and she bought some bread.
We can correct run-ons in several ways:
· Separate simple sentences
· Semicolon between the clauses
· Comma and coordinating conjunction between the clauses
We use the above correction methods when the ideas in each clause carry equal weight. Sometimes, however, we can make one clause depend on another by using a subordinator like when, because, although, if, etc.
Example: Mary bought some bread when she went to the store.
Example: When she went to the store, Mary bought some bread.
Example: If she goes to the store, Mary will buy some bread.
Example: Mary will buy some bread if she goes to the store.
Notice that when the dependent clause begins the sentence, a comma separates the clauses. When the dependent clause comes at the end of the sentence, no comma is needed.
HOT TIP: When you start a sentence with a subordinating word, you set up a condition. When you get to the end of the condition, you put a comma and then say what will happen if the condition is met.
Example: If she goes to the store, she will buy some bread.
What will happen if she goes to the store? She will buy some bread.
Occasionally in our efforts to eliminate run-on sentences, we create fragments. A fragment can be a phrase without a subject and verb; or it can be a dependent clause, which has a subject and verb but cannot stand alone because it does not express a complete thought. You must proofread carefully to find and eliminate fragments. Following are some ways to correct fragments:
· Join the fragment to the sentence that comes before it or the sentence that follows it. Your intended meaning will determine where the fragment goes.
· Add or remove words to convert a fragment into a complete sentence.
· Change the form of words (look particularly at verbs) in the fragment to create a complete sentence.
HOT TIP: Reading your work slowly and aloud will help you find sentence errors. Read only what is on the paper; neither add words that are not there nor omit words that are there. Your ears will detect problems more easily than your eyes.