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 comma splice?

Back

You can fix a comma splice by adding a coordinating conjunction, changing the comma to a semicolon, or making one of the clauses dependent.

Front

What is a run-on sentence?

Back

A run-on sentence is a sentence that contains two or more independent clauses that are not properly joined or separated.

Front

How can you correct a run-on sentence?

Back

You can correct a run-on sentence by adding a period, a semicolon, or a coordinating conjunction.

Front

What is a sentence fragment?

Back

A sentence fragment is a group of words that does not express a complete thought and cannot stand alone as a sentence.

Front

How can you fix a sentence fragment?

Back

You can fix a sentence fragment by adding it to a complete sentence or by adding the missing subject or verb.

Front

What is a coordinating conjunction?

Back

A coordinating conjunction is a word that connects two independent clauses. Common examples include 'and', 'but', 'or', and 'so'.

Front

What is the purpose of a semicolon?

Back

A semicolon is used to connect closely related independent clauses or to separate items in a complex list.

Front

Identify the error: 'I wanted to go for a walk, it was too cold outside.'

Back

This is a comma splice. It can be corrected by adding a conjunction: 'I wanted to go for a walk, but it was too cold outside.'

Front

Identify the error: 'During her Bahamas vacation, Sandra spent every dime shopping, dancing, swimming, and sightseeing, she doesn't care that her rent will be late.'

Back

This is a run-on sentence. It can be corrected by separating into two sentences: 'During her Bahamas vacation, Sandra spent every dime shopping, dancing, swimming, and sightseeing. She doesn't care that her rent will be late.'