INTRODUCTION
Comma splices and run–ons are errors that are often made when two or more independent clauses are incorrectly joined to form one longer, compound sentence. Independent clauses must be joined with the correct punctuation mark to separate the independent thoughts in each clause, or the joined sentence will not be clear.
A run–on error is made when independent clauses are joined with no punctuation to separate them.
A comma splice error is made when independent clauses are put together with only a comma to separate them.
THE RULE
When two or more independent clauses are joined to make one sentence, a correct punctuation mark must be placed at the point where the two sentences join. Keep reading for a more in–depth explanation.
APPLYING THE RULE
Incorrectly Joined Independent Clauses
1. Joining independent clauses without any punctuation is a run–on error.
run–on error Jerry went to a party he wrecked his car coming home.
run–on error This exam is finished so you must turn in your papers.
run–on error Everyone wants to go however, we don't have any money.
2. A "bare" comma is not the correct punctuation to join independent clauses. Joining
independent clauses with only a comma is a comma splice error. These sentences have
comma splice errors:
comma splice error Jerry went to a party , he wrecked his car coming home.
comma splice error This exam is finished , you must turn in your papers.
comma splice error Everyone wants to go , however, we don't have any money.
Overview of Incorrectly Joined Independent Clauses
|
Error |
The lightning flashed across the sky |
, |
the thunder roared menacingly. |
|
Error |
The lightning flashed across the sky |
|
the thunder roared menacingly. |
|
Error |
The lightning flashed across the sky |
and |
the thunder roared menacingly. |
|
Error |
The lightning flashed across the sky |
, moreover, |
the thunder roared menacingly. |
Practices
If you thnik you're ready to try a practice, click on one of the links below:
