7 Ways to Fix Run-on Sentences

Understanding Run-on Sentences

Run-on sentences are a common error in writing, where two or more independent clauses are joined without proper punctuation or conjunctions. An independent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a predicate, expressing a complete thought. When two independent clauses are joined without proper punctuation, it can be confusing for readers to understand the intended meaning. In this article, we will explore 7 ways to fix run-on sentences, making your writing clearer and more effective.

1. Use a Period to Separate Independent Clauses

One of the simplest ways to fix a run-on sentence is to use a period (.) to separate the independent clauses. This will create two separate sentences, each with its own complete thought.

Example:

Original sentence: I went to the store and I bought some milk.

Corrected sentence: I went to the store. I bought some milk.

By separating the two independent clauses with a period, we create two clear and concise sentences.

2. Use a Comma and a Conjunction

Another way to fix a run-on sentence is to use a comma (,) followed by a conjunction (like and, but, or, nor, for, so, yet). This will join the two independent clauses into a single sentence.

Example:

Original sentence: I went to the store and I bought some milk.

Corrected sentence: I went to the store, and I bought some milk.

Note: When using a comma and a conjunction, make sure the comma comes before the conjunction.

3. Use a Semicolon

A semicolon (;) can be used to separate two independent clauses that are closely related in meaning. This is useful when you want to show a stronger break between the two clauses than a comma would provide.

Example:

Original sentence: I went to the store and I bought some milk.

Corrected sentence: I went to the store; I bought some milk.

A semicolon is often used to separate clauses that could stand alone as separate sentences.

4. Use a Conjunctive Adverb

A conjunctive adverb (like however, therefore, thus, consequently, meanwhile, or additionally) can be used to join two independent clauses into a single sentence. These words help to show the relationship between the two clauses.

Example:

Original sentence: I went to the store and I bought some milk.

Corrected sentence: I went to the store; however, I forgot to buy eggs.

Note: When using a conjunctive adverb, use a semicolon before the adverb and a comma after it.

5. Use a Subordinating Conjunction

A subordinating conjunction (like because, since, after, although, or unless) can be used to join two clauses into a single sentence, where one clause is dependent on the other.

Example:

Original sentence: I went to the store and I bought some milk.

Corrected sentence: I went to the store because I needed to buy some milk.

A subordinating conjunction helps to show the relationship between the two clauses, making one clause dependent on the other.

6. Use a Relative Pronoun

A relative pronoun (like who, which, or that) can be used to join two clauses into a single sentence, where one clause is describing a noun in the other clause.

Example:

Original sentence: I went to the store and I bought some milk.

Corrected sentence: The store I went to was the one that sold milk.

Note: When using a relative pronoun, make sure it is referring to a specific noun in the sentence.

7. Use an Em Dash

An em dash (—) can be used to join two independent clauses into a single sentence, where one clause is interrupting the other. This is useful when you want to add a parenthetical remark or an afterthought.

Example:

Original sentence: I went to the store and I bought some milk.

Corrected sentence: I went to the store—but I forgot to buy eggs.

An em dash is often used to add a parenthetical remark or an afterthought to a sentence.

Conclusion

Run-on sentences can be confusing and make your writing unclear. By using one of the 7 methods above, you can fix run-on sentences and create clear and concise writing. Whether you choose to use a period, a comma and a conjunction, a semicolon, a conjunctive adverb, a subordinating conjunction, a relative pronoun, or an em dash, the key is to show the relationship between the clauses and make your writing easy to understand.