A2: Run-On Sentences

A2: Run-On Sentences: Run-on sentences can be corrected by adding appropriate punctuation or adding a coordinating conjunction.  See Writing for Success Section 2.1 pp. 48-52.

2 Types of Run-on Sentences

Fused Sentences: when no punctuation marks separate two or more independent clauses.

A headache can be a stressful and painful part of anyone’s day aspirin makes things better.

Comma Splices: when a comma is used to separate two or more independent clauses.  Commas are not strong enough to separate independent clauses by themselves.

A headache can be a stressful and painful part of anyone’s day, aspirin makes things better.

4 Ways to Fix Run-on Sentences

#1: Use a period and a capital letter to make the clauses into their own sentences.

A headache can be a stressful and painful part of anyone’s day.  Aspirin makes things better.

#2: Use a semi-colon between the independent clauses (only when closely related — don’t overuse).

A headache can be a stressful and painful part of anyone’s day; aspirin makes things better.

#3: Use a comma AND a coordinating conjunction.

A headache can be a stressful and painful part of anyone’s day, but aspirin makes things better.

#4: Use a subordinating conjunction (with or without a comma, depending upon emphasis).

A headache can be a stressful and painful part of anyone’s day though aspirin makes things better.