1. Understand the Basics
* Run-on Sentence: Two or more independent clauses (complete sentences) are joined together without proper punctuation or conjunctions.
* Comma Splice: Two independent clauses are joined only by a comma.
2. Spot the Signs:
* Look for independent clauses: Independent clauses have a subject and a verb and can stand alone as a sentence.
* Check for conjunctions: Conjunctions like "and," "but," "or," "for," "nor," "so," and "yet" can connect two independent clauses correctly.
* Examine punctuation: A semicolon (;) or a colon (:) can also separate two independent clauses.
* Notice if a sentence is too long: If a sentence seems overly long and clunky, it might be a run-on.
3. Example Scenarios:
* Run-on: "The sun was shining brightly, the birds were singing." (Two independent clauses joined without punctuation)
* Comma Splice: "The cat chased the mouse, it disappeared under the couch." (Two independent clauses joined only by a comma)
* Correct: "The sun was shining brightly, and the birds were singing." (Two independent clauses joined by a conjunction)
* Correct: "The sun was shining brightly; the birds were singing." (Two independent clauses joined by a semicolon)
4. How to Fix Them:
* Use a period: Separate the clauses into two sentences.
* Use a comma and a coordinating conjunction: Add a comma and one of the conjunctions listed above.
* Use a semicolon: This can separate the clauses when the ideas are closely related.
* Use a colon: Use a colon when the second clause explains or clarifies the first clause.
5. Don't Be Afraid to Experiment:
Practice identifying run-on sentences and comma splices in your own writing. Read aloud to see if the sentences sound choppy or unclear. Experiment with different ways to correct them until you find what works best.