Fragments and Run-On Sentences: Understanding and Correcting Common Sentence Errors
Effective communication relies on clear and well-structured sentences. However, two common errors that can hinder this clarity are sentence fragments and run-on sentences. In this article, we will delve into the definitions, causes, and solutions for these errors, providing examples and practical tips to help you enhance your writing skills. By the end, my hope is that you will have a solid understanding of fragments and run-ons be able to address and correct these errors confidently.
Sentence Fragments
A sentence fragment is an incomplete sentence that lacks a subject, a verb, or both, and cannot express a complete thought on its own. Fragments can occur for various reasons, such as incorrect punctuation, subordination errors, or missing essential components.
Causes of Sentence Fragments:
Subordination Errors: When a subordinate clause is mistakenly used as a complete sentence, it creates a fragment. For example: "Because I was tired." This phrase lacks a main clause and is thus a fragment.
Missing Subject or Verb: If a sentence lacks a subject or a verb, it becomes a fragment. For example: "Running in the park." This fragment lacks a subject.
Dependent Clauses: A dependent clause, unable to stand alone, creates a fragment when used independently. For example: "Although she arrived early." This phrase lacks a main clause and is thus a fragment.
Identifying and Correcting Sentence Fragments
To identify fragments, it is crucial to determine whether a sentence expresses a complete thought. If not, analyze the structure to identify any missing elements. Correcting fragments involves adding the missing subject, verb, or main clause to make the sentence complete. For example: "Running in the park, she enjoyed the fresh air." (Fragment corrected)
Run-On Sentences:
A run-on sentence occurs when two or more independent clauses are incorrectly joined together without proper punctuation or conjunctions. Run-ons can lead to confusion and can make writing difficult to follow.
Types of Run-On Sentences:
Fused Sentences (Comma Splice): A fused sentence occurs when two independent clauses are joined by a comma alone, without any coordinating conjunction or appropriate punctuation. For example: "She ran quickly, she reached the finish line first." (Run-on corrected: "She ran quickly, and she reached the finish line first.")
Lack of Punctuation: When two independent clauses are placed together without any punctuation, it results in a run-on sentence. For example: "He studied all night he still failed the test." (Run-on corrected: "He studied all night, but he still failed the test.")
Incorrect Use of Coordinating Conjunctions: Run-ons can also arise when coordinating conjunctions (and, but, or, so, etc.) are used improperly or omitted. For example: "She wanted to go out but she was too tired." (Run-on corrected: "She wanted to go out, but she was too tired.")
Identifying and Correcting Run-On Sentences:
To identify run-ons, read your sentences aloud and pay attention to the flow. Look for instances where independent clauses are improperly joined. To correct run-ons, choose the appropriate method:
Period: Separate the independent clauses into separate sentences. For example: "She ran quickly. She reached the finish line first."
Semicolon: Use a semicolon to join two closely related independent clauses. For example: "She ran quickly; she reached the finish line first."
Coordinating Conjunction: Add an appropriate coordinating conjunction to link the independent clauses. For example: "She ran quickly, and she reached the finish line first."
Conclusion
Sentence fragments and run-on sentences can undermine the clarity and effectiveness of your writing. Understanding their causes and employing appropriate correction strategies is essential for clear and coherent communication. By identifying fragments and run-ons and employing the correct solutions, you can significantly enhance the quality of your writing. Remember to review your work carefully, read it aloud, and practice applying these principles consistently. With time and practice, you can develop the skills to write sentences that convey your thoughts with precision and coherence.
For more practice, download this FREE worksheet that goes over fragments and run-ons.
