What causes a sentence fragment?

A sentence fragment occurs when a group of words that looks like a sentence is missing one or more of the essential components that make a complete sentence. Here's a breakdown of the causes:

1. Lack of a Subject:

* Example: *Running through the park.* (Who is running?)

2. Lack of a Verb:

* Example: *The beautiful, red car.* (What is the car doing?)

3. Lack of a Complete Thought:

* Example: *Because I was late.* (This is a dependent clause that needs an independent clause to make a complete thought.)

4. Missing a Necessary Element:

* Example: *Going to the store.* (This needs a subject to be complete.)

5. Dependent Clause Standing Alone:

* Example: *Although I was tired.* (This is a dependent clause that needs an independent clause to be a complete sentence.)

In summary:

A sentence fragment is missing either a subject, a verb, or both. It also could be a dependent clause that is trying to stand alone, or it might be missing a necessary element to make a complete thought.