How To Fix and Avoid Run-On Sentences?

Run-on sentences occur when two or more independent clauses (complete thoughts that could stand alone as separate sentences) are incorrectly joined without proper punctuation or conjunctions. These sentences can confuse readers because they mash together ideas without clear separation.

Let’s deep dive into the topic and learn about how to fix and avoid run-on sentences.

What are run-on sentences?

Run-on sentences are grammatical errors where two or more independent clauses (each of which could stand alone as a separate sentence) are improperly joined without appropriate punctuation or conjunctions.

They can lead to confusion and obscure the meaning of the text, as they do not allow the reader to clearly see where one thought ends and another begins.

Types of Run-on Sentences

There are two main types of run-on sentences: fused sentences and comma splices.

Fused Sentences

A fused sentence happens when independent clauses are joined without any punctuation. Essentially, it’s as if the clauses have been “fused” together without a break, making it hard to see where one thought ends and another begins.

Example of a fused sentence:

• “I love to write music is my passion.”
  • This sentence incorrectly joins two independent clauses (“I love to write” and “music is my passion”) without any punctuation or conjunction.

Comma Splices

A comma splice occurs when two independent clauses are joined only by a single comma without a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so). While a comma does indicate a pause or a break, it’s not strong enough on its own to separate independent clauses.

Example of a comma splice:

• “I love to write, music is my passion.”
  • Here, the comma between “write” and “music” is insufficient to properly connect the two independent clauses.

How to Fix Run-On Sentences?

Fixing and avoiding run-on sentences is crucial for clear and coherent writing. Run-on sentences, which consist of two or more independent clauses joined without proper punctuation or conjunctions, can confuse readers.

1. Use a Period: The simplest way to correct a run-on sentence is to split it into two separate sentences using a period. This method clearly separates the independent clauses, making the text easier to understand. For example:
   • Run-On: “She enjoys painting it relaxes her.”
   • Corrected: “She enjoys painting. It relaxes her.”
2. Use a Semicolon: A semicolon can join two closely related independent clauses. This punctuation mark indicates a stronger connection between the clauses than a period would, without the need for a conjunction. For example:
   • Run-On: “He didn’t see the stop sign he continued to drive.”
   • Corrected: “He didn’t see the stop sign; he continued to drive.”
3. Use a Comma and a Conjunction: When two independent clauses are connected by a relationship that can be expressed by one of the coordinating conjunctions (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so), use a comma followed by the conjunction to join them. Example:
   • Run-On: “I was tired I went to bed early.”
   • Corrected: “I was tired, so I went to bed early.”
4. Use a Dash or a Colon: A dash can add emphasis or introduce an explanation or conclusion, while a colon can be used to emphasize a direct relationship or elaboration on the first clause. Example:
   • Run-On: “It was raining hard we decided to stay home.”
   • Corrected: “It was raining hard—we decided to stay home.” (dash)
   • Run-On: “He has one goal to become a doctor.”
   • Corrected: “He has one goal: to become a doctor.” (colon)

How to Avoid Run-On Sentences?

• Understand Sentence Structure: Knowing the difference between independent and dependent clauses helps you identify where sentences should be separated or connected.
• Review Your Work: Take the time to proofread your writing. Look specifically for sentences that may be too long or contain multiple ideas, and check if they are run-on sentences.
• Practice Punctuation: Familiarize yourself with the rules of using periods, semicolons, commas, and conjunctions to join clauses correctly.
• Read Aloud: Reading your work aloud can help you catch run-on sentences because you’re more likely to notice when sentences sound too long or the flow is off.

FAQs on Run-on Sentences

What is a run-on sentence?

A run-on sentence occurs when two or more independent clauses (complete thoughts) are improperly joined without correct punctuation or conjunctions. It can make sentences confusing and hard to read.

How do I identify a run-on sentence?

You can identify a run-on sentence by looking for sentences that contain multiple independent clauses (statements that could stand alone as separate sentences) without proper punctuation (like a period or semicolon) or conjunctions linking them.

What are the types of run-on sentences?

There are two main types:

1. Fused Sentences – independent clauses are joined without any punctuation.
2. Comma Splices – independent clauses are joined only by a comma without a coordinating conjunction.

How can I fix a run-on sentence?

To fix a run-on sentence, you can:

1. Use a period to separate the clauses into two sentences.
2. Use a semicolon if the clauses are closely related.
3. Use a comma followed by a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so).
4. Make one clause dependent by using a subordinating conjunction (because, although, since).