Run-ons and Comma Splices

Run-ons, comma splices, and fused sentences refer to incorrect or missing punctuation between two independent clauses. Readers see two complete sentences, and they need stronger, better punctuation that more clearly establishes the relationship between the two sentences.

Identifying and correcting run-on sentences and comma splices: this University of Arizona resource provides a brief definition and five possible ways to fix run-on sentences or comma splices.

Run-on sentences: this University of Minnesota webpage offers similar tips and more examples.

Run-ons: Fused Sentences & Comma Splices: like the U of A resource, this PDF from John Hopkins University defines run-ons and comma splices and identifies four ways to fix them.

Sentence Fragments

Sentence fragments are incomplete bits of speech. Short fragments are easy to identify: walked, I, and to the store are all fragments. The challenge comes when our thoughts become more complex, or when we try to hook ideas together.

Identifying and correcting fragments: the UNC-Chapel Hill Writing Center resources are always good, and this page is no exception.

Understanding and correcting sentence fragments: this University of Maryland resource focuses more explicitly on sentence fragments.