Sentence Fragments and Run-ons

Please note that this is an extension of the segment on sentence fragments and run-on
sentences first introduced in Editing Abbreviations and Symbols.

A complete sentence has a subject (main idea) and predicate (what does the subject do/what
happens to the subject?). Sentence fragments are pieces of sentences—they are incomplete.
To make fragments complete, you must add more information.

Example:

Travellers going through customs.

(fragment)

Travellers going through customs have to empty their pockets and have their bag scanned.
(complete)

Although snowfall is usually heavier.

(fragment)

Although snowfall is usually heavier in Toronto, Vancouver typically gets more annual rainfall.
(complete)

Run-on sentences are the opposite of fragments. They have too much information, and
commonly consist of two independent clauses linked with incorrect punctuation. To correct a
run-on, you may either separate it into two sentences, or correctly link the clauses.

Example:

The box jellyfish, known as the “Sea Wasp,” has dangerous toxins on its tentacles these
chemicals can cause cardio-respiratory functions to fail in 3 minutes. (run-on)

The box jellyfish, known as the “Sea Wasp,” has dangerous toxins on its tentacles. These
chemicals can cause cardio-respiratory functions to fail in 3 minutes. (complete)

OR

The box jellyfish, known as the “Sea Wasp,” has dangerous toxins on its tentacles that can
cause cardio-respiratory functions to fail in 3 minutes. (complete)

CAEL Skills Workbook - Online

Copyright © 2019 Paragon Testing Enterprises
 Sentence Fragments and Run-ons
Example:

Free-fall climbing a cliff face is a very dangerous activity even life-long rock climbers do not
usually attempt it. (run-on)

Free-fall climbing a cliff face is a very dangerous activity that even life-long rock climbers do
not usually attempt. (complete)

OR

Free-fall climbing a cliff face is a very dangerous activity. Even life-long rock climbers do not
usually attempt it.
(complete)

CAEL Skills Workbook - Online

Copyright © 2019 Paragon Testing Enterprises