Comma Splices, Fragments, and Run-Ons

Front

What is a fragment?

Back

A fragment is a group of words that does not express a complete thought. It often lacks a subject or a verb.

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Example of a fragment:

Back

"Even though she's the best dancer." This sentence does not stand alone as a complete thought.

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What is a run-on sentence?

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A run-on sentence occurs when two or more independent clauses are joined without proper punctuation or conjunction.

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Example of a run-on sentence:

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"It was hot outside I was about to pass out." This sentence combines two complete thoughts without punctuation.

Front

What is a comma splice?

Back

A comma splice is a grammatical error that occurs when two independent clauses are joined by a comma without a coordinating conjunction.

Front

Example of a comma splice:

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"I am sleepy, I have to go to work." This sentence incorrectly joins two independent clauses with just a comma.

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How can you fix a run-on sentence?

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You can fix a run-on sentence by adding a period, a semicolon, or a coordinating conjunction.

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True or False: A run-on sentence can be fixed by simply adding a comma.

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True, but it must also include a conjunction to be correct.

Front

What is a complete sentence?

Back

A complete sentence contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought.

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Example of a complete sentence:

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"She is the best dancer in the class." This sentence has a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought.