A2: Run-On Sentences
A2: Run-On Sentences: Run-on sentences can be corrected by adding appropriate punctuation or adding a coordinating conjunction. See Writing for Success Section 2.1 pp. 48-52.
2 Types of Run-on Sentences
Fused Sentences: when no punctuation marks separate two or more independent clauses.
A headache can be a stressful and painful part of anyone’s day aspirin makes things better.
Comma Splices: when a comma is used to separate two or more independent clauses. Commas are not strong enough to separate independent clauses by themselves.
A headache can be a stressful and painful part of anyone’s day, aspirin makes things better.
4 Ways to Fix Run-on Sentences
#1: Use a period and a capital letter to make the clauses into their own sentences.
A headache can be a stressful and painful part of anyone’s day. Aspirin makes things better.
#2: Use a semi-colon between the independent clauses (only when closely related — don’t overuse).
A headache can be a stressful and painful part of anyone’s day; aspirin makes things better.
#3: Use a comma AND a coordinating conjunction.
A headache can be a stressful and painful part of anyone’s day, but aspirin makes things better.
#4: Use a subordinating conjunction (with or without a comma, depending upon emphasis).
A headache can be a stressful and painful part of anyone’s day though aspirin makes things better.