Run-on sentences occur when two or more independent clauses are joined incorrectly without proper punctuation or conjunctions. These sentences can confuse the reader or listener because they lack clear separation between ideas. Understanding how to recognize and fix run-on sentences is essential for improving your writing and communication. In this article, we will explore what run-on sentences are, provide examples, and discuss how to correct them. Along with correct sentence examples, we will also be having a look at:
- How to fix run-on sentences
- How to avoid run-on sentences
- An exercise to correct the run-on sentence
Run-On Sentences
Here are some examples of run-on sentences. An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a complete sentence, as it has both a subject and a verb. To avoid confusion, independent clauses need to be connected in the correct way, either with punctuation (such as a period or semicolon) or conjunctions (like “and” or “but”).
- I love reading books I don’t have much time for it.
- She went to the store I stayed home and cleaned the house.
- The weather is warm today we should go for a walk.
- I forgot my keys I was late for the meeting.
- He studied all night he still failed the test.
Each of these examples contains two independent clauses that are incorrectly joined, making them run-on sentences.
Related: Transitional Sentences: Examples For Better Writing
Why Are They A Problem?
They are problematic because they confuse the reader or listener by combining multiple ideas without clear boundaries. When sentences are too long or lack appropriate punctuation, it can become difficult to understand the intended meaning. Additionally, run-on sentences can make writing seem disorganized or careless. Correct sentence structure helps make communication clearer and more effective.
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Let’s fix run-on sentences
There are several ways to fix run-on sentences. Below are the most common methods to correct them:
| Method to fix run on sentences | How to fix them | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Use a Period | Separate the independent clauses into two sentences by adding a period. | Run-on: I love reading books I don’t have much time for it. Corrected: I love reading books. I don’t have much time for it. |
| Use a Comma and Coordinating Conjunction | Insert a comma and a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) to link the clauses. | Run-on: She went to the store I stayed home and cleaned the house. Corrected: She went to the store, and I stayed home and cleaned the house. |
| Use a Semicolon | Use a semicolon to link two related independent clauses. | Run-on: The weather is warm today we should go for a walk. Corrected: The weather is warm today; we should go for a walk. |
| Use a Subordinating Conjunction | Use a subordinating conjunction to turn one clause into a dependent clause. | Run-on: I forgot my keys I was late for the meeting. Corrected: I forgot my keys because I was late for the meeting. |
Related: Connectors In English Language: Sentence + Paragraph Examples
Correct the run-on sentence
Correct each one by using one of the methods discussed (period, comma + conjunction, semicolon, or subordinating conjunction).
- I was hungry I made a sandwich.
- He wanted to go to the beach it was raining.
- I like to swim I also enjoy hiking.
- She studied all week she still wasn’t ready for the exam.
- The cat is sleeping it looks so peaceful.
Corrected run-on sentences
- I was hungry, so I made a sandwich.
- He wanted to go to the beach, but it was raining.
- I like to swim, and I also enjoy hiking.
- She studied all week; she still wasn’t ready for the exam.
- The cat is sleeping. It looks so peaceful.
Repairing run-on sentences
Here are some sentences that nearly could have been run-on sentences, but are now actually grammatically correct. Read and repeat them out loud to better visualize how the correct use of punctuation, clauses, and conjunctions work to form correct sentences.
- I like coffee in the morning, especially with a little bit of milk and sugar.
- Sally went to the mall, and I stayed home.
- The weather was warm, so we decided to go to the beach.
- He enjoys reading mystery novels; they are his favorite.
- I called my friend, but she didn’t answer.
- They were tired after the trip. They went straight to bed.
- We had dinner, then we watched a movie.
- The dog ran in the yard, and the cat sat on the porch.
- It was raining, yet they still went for a run.
- I need to finish my work before I can relax.
- The music was loud. I couldn’t concentrate.
- She loves to travel. Last year, she went to Australia.
- He’s a great cook, and he enjoys trying new recipes.
How to Avoid Run-On Sentences
Preventing them in your writing starts with a good understanding of sentence structure. Here are some tips to help avoid creating them:
- Understand the basic sentence structure: Remember that every sentence needs a subject and a verb. Be sure to break long thoughts into separate sentences if necessary.
- Use punctuation correctly: Make sure to separate independent clauses with a period, semicolon, or comma plus conjunction.
- Read your writing aloud: Sometimes when you read your sentences out loud, you’ll notice if they are too long or confusing. If you find yourself pausing in the middle of a sentence, it may be a sign of a run-on sentence.
- Revise your work: After writing, always take the time to revise your sentences. Look for run-on sentences and correct them to improve clarity.
- Practice writing shorter sentences: If you find it difficult to write clear sentences, try focusing on writing shorter, simpler sentences. This can help you avoid creating them in the first place.
Spotting and fixing run-on sentences
Understanding run-on sentences and knowing how to fix them is crucial for improving your writing skills. By learning to spot and correct run-ons, you can ensure that your sentences are clear, concise, and easy to understand. Whether you separate independent clauses with punctuation or connect them with conjunctions, taking care to structure your sentences properly will improve your overall communication. With practice, you’ll become more confident in creating sentences that flow smoothly and effectively.