Chapter 5

Part II

4. Make one thought dependent, using subordinating conjunctions (such as because, when after, if).

Chapter 5:How to Correct Run-On Sentences

Take a look at the following examples:

Chapter 5:How to Correct Run-On Sentences

Here is a list of common subordinating conjunctions:

Chapter 5:Subordinating Conjunctions

Note the punctuation of dependent clauses based on their position in a sentence:

Chapter 5:Punctuating Dependent Clauses

Take a look at the following examples:

Chapter 5: Punctuating Dependent Clauses

Like run-ons, comma splices are serious sentence errors that confuse and annoy the readers. They are corrected the same way as run-ons. They occur when only a comma is used to separate two complete thoughts. A comma also is not sufficient to divide two thoughts. A stronger separation is necessary.

Chapter 5:Comma Splices

To test a sentence to see if you have written a comma splice, take the sentence apart at the comma.

If the part before the comma is a complete thought and the part after the comma is also a complete thought, then you need to check whether the second clause starts with a coordinating conjunction (and, or, but, so, for, yet, nor).

If you do not have a coordinating conjunction to separate the two complete thoughts, then you have a comma splice.

Chapter 5:How to Recognize Comma Splices

To correct comma splice use any one of the methods you used to correct run-ons:

Chapter 5:How to Correct Comma Splices

Proofreading Tips

Chapter 5: Writing Success Tip 5