Most people correct run-on sentences by using commas, periods and semicolons. However, there is another avenue available for those willing to work at it. Most of the time, it’s the type of solution that will net you the best text possible.

Using Coordination To Correct Run-On Sentences

With two main clauses that come with equal importance, coordinating them should fix the problem easily. To do this, simply add a comma and a coordinating conjunction (i.e. and, but, or, nor, so) between the two main clauses.

For example, the run-on sentence “My friend lost the fight he gave that opponent the beating of his life” can be corrected in this manner as “My friend lost the fight, but he gave that opponent the beating of his life.”

Using Subordination To Correct Run-On Sentences

When the two main clauses aren’t equally important, you can subordinate one of them, turning it to either an adjective clause or an adverb clause. To do this, simply take the second clause and use it to illustrate a point in the first.

For example, the run-on sentence “Last night I bought a Kindle it’s an eBook reader from Amazon” can be rewritten as “Last night I bought a Kindle, which is an eBook reader from Amazon,” turning the second clause into an adjective phrase.

Being Wary

As always, be wary of run-on sentences in your writing. They’re a very easy transgression to commit, especially when you’re drafting. Many of the best English software correctors can catch them, but do make a manual pass as well, just to be sure.