Run-on sentences—those long, jumbled lines of text that keep going like a rollercoaster with no brakes—can be a challenge for any writer. Whether you're new to learning English or just looking to brush up on your skills, mastering sentence structure is crucial. Run-ons are one of the most common mistakes, but don’t worry! They’re easy to avoid once you know what to look out for. Let’s dive into how to spot and fix them, and keep your writing smooth and polished!
What Exactly Is a Run-On Sentence?
First, let’s get this straight: a run-on sentence isn’t just a long sentence. It’s when two or more independent clauses (sentences that could stand on their own) are squished together without proper punctuation or connecting words.
For example:
Incorrect: I love learning English it helps me communicate better.
There are two complete thoughts here, but they’re stuck together without a pause. It feels rushed and confusing, like trying to eat an entire pizza in one bite.
How to Spot Run-On Sentences
If you’re unsure whether your sentence is a run-on, try this simple test:
Can the sentence be split into two complete ideas that make sense on their own?
Is there a proper connector (like a conjunction) or punctuation between them?
If the answer is yes to the first but no to the second, you’ve got a run-on sentence.
How to Fix Run-On Sentences
There are three main ways to fix a run-on sentence: using a period, a comma and conjunction, or a semicolon. Let’s break these down with examples.
1. Break It Up with a Period
The easiest way to fix a run-on is to turn it into two (or more) separate sentences. This adds clarity and gives your readers a natural pause.
Run-On: I love learning English it helps me communicate better.
Fixed: I love learning English. It helps me communicate better.
2. Use a Comma and a Conjunction
If you want to keep the two ideas connected, you can use a comma plus a conjunction. Conjunctions are words like and, but, or, so, yet, and because that help link ideas together.
Run-On: I love learning English it helps me communicate better.
Fixed: I love learning English, and it helps me communicate better.
3. Go Fancy with a Semicolon
Semicolons are like a stronger version of a comma but without needing a conjunction. They’re perfect when you want to connect two closely related ideas without a full stop.
Run-On: I love learning English it helps me communicate better.
Fixed: I love learning English; it helps me communicate better.
Common Run-On Sentence Traps
Here are a few common traps that lead to run-on sentences and how to avoid them.
1. Using Just a Comma (Comma Splices)
Many people think just throwing in a comma will fix a run-on, but that’s not quite right. A comma alone isn’t strong enough to separate two independent clauses. When you do this, it’s called a comma splice.
Incorrect: I love English, it’s so fun to learn.
Fixed: I love English. It’s so fun to learn.
Or: I love English, and it’s so fun to learn.
2. Forgetting Conjunctions
If you forget to add a conjunction (like and or but) after a comma, you’re left with a run-on sentence. Always check if there’s a proper connector when combining ideas.
Incorrect: He studied hard, he passed the exam.
Fixed: He studied hard, and he passed the exam.
3. Overstuffing Sentences
Sometimes run-ons happen when you try to stuff too many ideas into one sentence without proper punctuation. It’s important to know when to stop and start fresh.
Run-On: I went to the store I bought apples they were on sale.
Fixed: I went to the store. I bought apples because they were on sale.
Practice Time: Fixing Run-Ons
Let’s put your skills to the test! Try fixing these run-on sentences:
She loves watching movies she goes to the theater every weekend.
I didn’t understand the question I asked the teacher for help.
They traveled to Paris it was their first time in Europe.
Fixed Versions:
She loves watching movies, and she goes to the theater every weekend.
I didn’t understand the question, so I asked the teacher for help.
They traveled to Paris; it was their first time in Europe.
Why Avoiding Run-On Sentences Matters
Writing without run-on sentences isn’t just about following grammar rules; it’s about making your writing clear and enjoyable to read. Run-ons can confuse your reader, making your ideas harder to follow. By keeping your sentences well-structured, you make sure your message comes across smoothly—whether you're writing a school essay, an email, or even your first novel.
At Lounge, we believe that mastering English should be fun and impactful. Our English lessons not only help you improve your skills but also support children in Honduras by providing them with school supplies. So, why not learn grammar, punctuation, and more with a purpose? Sign up for a class today and join us in making a difference!
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