Overview
A run-on sentence occurs when two or more independent clauses are joined without correct punctuation or a conjunction. Example (wrong): I was tired I went to bed. Fixes include adding a full stop, a semicolon, or a coordinating conjunction with a comma.
What is a Run-on?
- A run-on sentence joins two or more independent clauses without correct punctuation or a conjunction.
- Fused❌ I was tired I went to bed early.
- Comma splice❌ I was tired, I went to bed early.
- Correct✅ I was tired, so I went to bed early.
Four Ways to Fix Run-ons
- Full stopI was tired. I went to bed early.
- SemicolonI was tired; I went to bed early.
- ConjunctionI was tired, so I went to bed early.
- SubordinateBecause I was tired, I went to bed early.
Common Mistakes
- ❌ She loves music she plays the guitar every day.
- ✅ She loves music; she plays the guitar every day.
- ❌ He finished the report then he sent it.
- ✅ He finished the report and then sent it.
When to use
Academic essays
The experiment failed; the team redesigned the method.
Professional emails
The deadline has passed. Please submit by Friday.
Narrative writing
She opened the door, and she saw the surprise inside.
Reports
Costs increased significantly; therefore, the budget was revised.