Comma splices, Run-ons, & Fragments

Front

What is a comma splice?

Back

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

Front

How can you fix a run-on sentence?

Back

You can fix a run-on sentence by using a period, a semicolon, or a coordinating conjunction to separate the independent clauses.

Front

What is a fragment in writing?

Back

A fragment is a group of words that does not express a complete thought and is typically missing a subject or a verb.

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought.

Front

What is a dependent clause?

Back

A dependent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb but does not express a complete thought and cannot stand alone.

Front

How can you identify a complete sentence?

Back

A complete sentence must have at least one independent clause, including a subject and a verb, and express a complete thought.

Front

What punctuation can be used to correct a run-on sentence?

Back

A semicolon, a period, or a comma followed by a coordinating conjunction can be used to correct a run-on sentence.

Front

What is the purpose of a coordinating conjunction?

Back

A coordinating conjunction connects words, phrases, or independent clauses and includes for, and, nor, but, or, yet, and so.

Front

What is the difference between a run-on sentence and a comma splice?

Back

A run-on sentence occurs when independent clauses are joined without any punctuation, while a comma splice occurs when they are joined with just a comma.

Front

How can you turn a fragment into a complete sentence?

Back

To turn a fragment into a complete sentence, add the missing subject or verb or connect it to an independent clause.