Comma Splices

Comma Splices &
Run-On Sentences

A Guide to Identifying and Fixing Them

1. What is a
Comma Splice?

A comma splice occurs when you use a comma
to join two complete sentences without placing
an appropriate joining word between them.

➔

Comma Splice Example
I completed my essay, I have not
submitted it.

2. What is a
Run-On Sentence?

A run-on occurs when you do not use
punctuation and/or conjunctions to join two
complete sentences.

➔

Run-On Example
I completed my essay I have not
submitted it.

The grammatical term for a group of words that can stand on its
own as a complete sentence is independent clause.
To be an independent clause, the group of words must contain
both a subject and a verb. In the independent clause I completed
my essay, I is the subject, and completed is the verb.

Tip

Find a subject and a
verb.

Subjects are nouns

Verbs show action

Time to Fix Them!

Solution 1: Use a period.

I completed my essay. I have not submitted it.

Tip

Periods are like fences.
Sentence need to be
separated from each
other like yards are in
towns.

It’s best to add variety
when writing.

Time to Fix Them!

Solution 2: Use a semicolon. ;

I completed my essay; I have not submitted it.

Tip

These two independent
clauses must be
logically related AND
closely related in order
to use a semicolon.

Time to Fix Them!

Solution 3: Use a coordinating conjunction.

I completed my essay, but I have not submitted it.

Tip

There are 7 of these and
they can be
remembered with the
mnemonic “FANBOYS”.

These show equal stress
on both ideas.

Time to Fix Them!

Solution 4: Use a subordinating conjunction.

Although I have not submitted it, I completed my essay.

Tip

There are many of
these.

These show
UNequal stress on
both ideas.

2. Your Turn

How would you fix the following grammar
error?

➔

James loves running in the rain, he would run in the rain every day if he could.

2. Your Turn

How would you fix the following sentence(s)?

There are too many days of school in a week, some people think we should only have a four day school week, there are other people who think we should keep the same schedule.

3. Formative
Assessment
Time!

How would you fix the following sentence(s)?

Driving a car is fast and convenient but riding a bicycle is better for your health and the environment.