College Entrance Test: Run-On Sentences and Sentence Fragments

Happens when two or more independent clauses (also known as complete sentences) are connected improperly.

• Run-on sentence

• Comma splice

• Sentence fragment

What kind of error is this?

I love to write papers I would write one everyday if I had the time.

• Run-on sentence

• Comma splice

• Sentence fragment

Answer explanation

To correct this—there should be a period, semicolon, or "and" after the word "papers".

Type of run-on sentence in which two independent clauses are joined with just a comma.

• Run-on sentence

• Comma splice

• Sentence fragment

What kind of error is this?

I went to the store, I bought some groceries.

• Run-on sentence

• Comma splice

• Sentence fragment

Answer explanation

To correct this, add "and" after the comma.

What kind of error is this?

The cat meowed loudly, it wanted my attention.

• Run-on sentence

• Comma splice

• Sentence fragment

Answer explanation

To correct this, replace the comma with a semicolon.

What kind of error is this?

The results of the study were includive, therefore more research needs to be done on the topic.

• Run-on sentence

• Comma splice

• Sentence fragment

Answer explanation

To correct this, replace the comma (after the word "includive) with a semicolon, then add a comma after the word "however."

A string of words that does not form a complete sentence because there is a necessary component missing. (this missing component may be a noun, verb, etc.)

• Run-on sentence

• Comma splice

• Sentence fragment

What type of error is this?

Shows no improvement in any of the vital signs.

• Run-on sentence

• Comma splice

• Sentence fragment

Answer explanation

To correct this: add a subject in the beginning of the sentence.

What type of error is this?

Went to the store to get some groceries.

• Run-on sentence

• Comma splice

• Sentence fragment

Answer explanation

To correct this, add a subject in the beginning of the sentence.

What type of error is this?

The doctor, who were using peer-reviewed research articles that contributed to the body of knowledge in thier fields, which was obstetrics.

• Run-on sentence

• Comma splice

• Sentence fragment