Greetings from the world of writing, where creating engrossing lines may envelop readers in inspiration and creativity. However, when we’re in the thick of a creative flow, it’s simple for our words to get out of hand and produce run-on sentences that make readers gasp for air. But don’t worry! We’ll solve the riddle of fixing run-on sentences in English and provide you with useful advice on how to mend them like a language master.
So, grab a pen (or a keyboard) and let’s get into the finer points of sentence structure. Prepare to boost your writing ante and finally rid yourself of those annoying run-on sentences.
What is a run-on sentence?
Run-on sentences are those that continue without proper punctuation or obvious breaks, much like a marathon runner who won’t stop to catch their breath. They emerge from the mingling of several independent clauses (full thoughts) without allowing them to stand alone and shine.
The run-on sentences are mostly extended sentences, and the readers may find it challenging to understand the writing flow because of the wordiness. Keep an eye out for those overly wordy sentences that seem to flow endlessly across the page. You can notice them by looking for words like “and,” “but,” and “or” that link two independent clauses together. Plus, they often contain two or more verbs conjugated in the same tense.
For example:
Incorrect – The sun is shining brightly today they seem to be in a good mood.
In this case, the two independent clauses are “The sun is shining brightly today” and “they seem to be in a good mood.” But since they’re connected without proper punctuation, it reads as one long sentence.
Correct – The sun is shining brightly today, and they seem to be in a good mood.
Types of Run-On Sentences You’ll Come Across:
When constructing run-on sentences, writers may have different tactics. Here are three common varieties you’ll encounter:
- Fused Sentences: These sentences don’t have punctuation or words to connect the two independent clauses.
Incorrect – She was feeling tired so she decided to go home.
Correct – She was feeling tired, so she decided to go home.
- Comma Splice: These sentences use commas to link two independent clauses together, but it’s incorrect grammar usage.
Incorrect – She smoked a cigarette, she felt relieved.
Correct – She smoked a cigarette; she felt relieved.
- Polysyndeton: These sentences contain too many conjunctions. They are usually wordy and filled with too much information.
Incorrect – She loves to shop, and dress up, and buy new shoes.
Correct – She loves to shop, dress up, and buy new shoes.
How to Fix Run-on Sentences?
Now that we’ve identified the types of run-on sentences you may encounter, let’s discuss the tips to correct run-on sentences so your writing can flow seamlessly. The good news is that it’s not as hard as it seems! Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Use a period or semicolon: The simplest solution for run-on sentences is punctuation. Use a period or semicolon to create two separate sentences.
For example:
Incorrect – I love swimming it’s my favorite activity.
Correct – I love swimming. It’s my favorite activity.
- Use a conjunction: If you want to keep the two thoughts connected, use a coordinating conjunction like “and,” “but,” or “or.” Remember to add a comma before the conjunction for correct punctuation usage.
For example:
Incorrect – I want to travel the world, I love experiencing new cultures.
Correct – I want to travel the world, and I love experiencing new cultures.
- Use a subordinating conjunction: For complex sentences with one main thought and one supporting idea, use subordinating conjunctions like “because,” “although,” or “while.” Since the supporting idea is not a complete thought, it cannot stand alone as its own sentence.
For example:
Incorrect – I finished my homework I can finally relax.
Correct – I finished my homework, so I can finally relax.
- Add transition words: You can also add transition words (like “however,” “therefore,” or “furthermore”) to connect the two independent clauses smoothly.
For example:
Incorrect – She loves to travel, she hates long flights.
Correct – She loves to travel; however, she hates long flights.
- Break sentences: If your sentence is too long, consider breaking it up into smaller sentences to improve readability and structure.
For example:
Incorrect – The trek was long and tiring, but we finally reached the top of the mountain, and the view was breathtaking.
Correct – The trek was long and tiring, but we finally reached the top of the mountain. The view was breathtaking.
- Read your writing out loud: Sometimes, you may not realize that a sentence is a run-on until you read it aloud. So, make sure to read your writing out loud and pause at natural breaks to identify any potential run-on sentences.
For example:
Incorrect – I love cooking, it’s my passion.
Correct – I love cooking. It’s my passion.
By implementing these strategies, you’ll not only enhance the structure and coherence of your writing but also ensure that readers can effortlessly navigate through your thoughts without feeling inundated by never-ending sentences.
Conclusion:
Coherence is key in writing, and one of the essential elements of coherence is proper sentence structure. By avoiding run-on sentences, you’ll improve your writing significantly and impress your readers with your mastery over language. So, next time you catch yourself constructing a run-on, remember these tips and give yourself a pat on the back for being one step closer to becoming a writing pro!
