When it comes to writing, it is essential to understand the concepts of fragments and run-ons. Fragments are incomplete sentences that lack a subject, verb, or both, while run-ons occur when two or more independent clauses are joined without appropriate punctuation or conjunction. These errors can disrupt the flow of your writing and confuse the reader. Let’s explore some examples of fragments and run-ons to help you avoid these common mistakes.
Fragment Example: “The cat sleeping on the windowsill.”
This sentence is a fragment because it lacks a subject or a verb. It is incomplete and does not form a complete thought.
Run-On Example: “I went to the store I bought some groceries.”
This sentence is a run-on because it combines two independent clauses without appropriate punctuation or a conjunction. It should be separated into two sentences or joined with a comma and a conjunction.
Fragment Example: “In the park on a sunny day.”
This sentence is a fragment because it is missing a subject and a verb. It does not express a complete thought and leaves the reader wondering what happened in the park on a sunny day.
Run-On Example: “She was tired she decided to take a nap.”
This sentence is a run-on because it joins two independent clauses without proper punctuation or a conjunction. It should be separated into two sentences or connected with a comma and a conjunction.
Fragment Example: “Under the table.”
This sentence is a fragment because it lacks a subject and a verb. It does not convey a complete idea and leaves the reader wondering what is happening under the table.
Run-On Example: “The sun was shining brightly I decided to go for a walk.”
This sentence is a run-on because it combines two independent clauses without appropriate punctuation or a conjunction. It should be separated into two sentences or connected with a comma and a conjunction.
It is crucial to identify and correct fragments and run-ons in your writing to ensure clarity and coherence. By understanding these common errors and practicing proper sentence structure, you can enhance the readability and effectiveness of your writing.