The simplest way to correct a run-on sentence (also known as a fused sentence) is with a mark of punctuation--a period or semicolon.
Correcting a Run-on Sentence With a Period
To make two separate sentences out of a run-on, put a period at the end of the first main clause and begin the second main clause with a capital letter:
Run-on Sentence
Merdine is a skilled carpenter she single-handedly built a two-story log cabin.
Corrected
Merdine is a skilled carpenter. She single-handedly built a two-story log cabin.
Inserting a period at the end of the first main clause is often the best way to correct a long run-on sentence.
Correcting a Run-on Sentence With a Semicolon
Another way to separate two main clauses is with a semicolon:
Run-on SentenceBe careful not to overwork the semicolon. The mark is most often used between two main clauses that are closely related in meaning and grammatical form.
Merdine is a skilled carpenter she single-handedly built a two-story log cabin.
Corrected
Merdine is a skilled carpenter; she single-handedly built a two-story log cabin.
Adding a Conjunctive Adverb
Although a period or semicolon will correct a run-on sentence, a mark of punctuation alone won't explain how the second main clause relates to the first one. To make this relationship clear, you can follow the period or semicolon with a conjunctive adverb--that is, a transitional expression that introduces a main clause.
The common conjunctive adverbs show that you are continuing a thought (furthermore, moreover), offering a contrast (however, nonetheless, still), or showing a result (accordingly, consequently, then, therefore, thus). Unlike coordinating conjunctions, conjunctive adverbs don't join main clauses; however, they do guide your readers by linking ideas:
- I loathed my job more than I loved the paycheck; consequently, I quit work and returned to college.
- After three days of rain, I was tempted to abandon the hike. Nevertheless, on the fourth day I took bearings from my compass and set out due west toward Cedar Bay.
For more information about using transitional words and phrases, see Coherence Strategies.
Next:
Exercise in Correcting a Run-on Sentence With a Period or Semicolon (page two)
