By Katya Rivers
What is a run-on sentence?
A run-on sentence consists of two or more independent clauses that have been joined without appropriate punctuation or a coordinating conjunction. Dividing a run-on sentence into concise, meaningful units can help to clarify your message.
First, an independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a sentence. You can tell because it has both a subject and a verb and forms a complete thought. Second, a coordinating conjunction is a word that joins two independent clauses. You can remember these as FANBOYS: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so.
How do I find it?
- Locate the independent clauses; it may help to underline the subject-verb pairs.
- Make the separation clear by drawing vertical lines between independent clauses.
How do I fix it?
- Use a period and proper capitalization to separate the independent clauses into two (or more) complete sentences,
- OR use a comma followed by a coordinating conjunction to connect separate but related independent clauses,
- OR use a semicolon (;), colon (:), or em-dash (–) as appropriate to separate related independent clauses,
- OR change one independent clause into a dependent clause and join the two clauses, using appropriate punctuation,
- OR rewrite two fused independent clauses as one cohesive independent clause.
Let’s see it in action:
Incorrect: One way to confront a problem is to seek advice it can come from someone with more life experience.
Correction A: One way to confront a problem is to seek advice; it can come from someone with more life experience.
Correction B: One way to confront a problem is to seek advice. Frequently, guidance can come from someone with more life experience.
Correction C: One way to confront a problem is to seek advice from someone with more life experience.
Katya Rivers is a senior majoring in religion.