What is a Run-On Sentence?

A run-on sentence occurs when two or more independent clauses (complete sentences) are joined together without appropriate punctuation or conjunction. These sentences often lack the necessary punctuation marks like periods, commas with conjunctions, or semicolons, making them difficult to read and understand. Run-on sentences can make writing confusing and can obscure the intended meaning of the text.

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Examples of Run-On Sentences

Here are a few examples of run-on sentences:

• I love to write papers I would write one every day if I had the time.

• The sun is high put on some sunscreen.

• She didn’t see the step she fell.

 

Correcting Run-On Sentences

 

• There are several ways to correct run-on sentences:

• **Separate into two sentences**: Break the run-on into two separate sentences. For example: "I love to write papers. I would write one every day if I had the time."

• **Use a conjunction**: Combine the clauses with a conjunction and a comma. For example: "The sun is high, so put on some sunscreen."

• **Use a semicolon**: A semicolon can be used to connect closely related ideas. For example: "She didn’t see the step; she fell."