Run on sentences are two independent sentences that run together and can often be confusing to a reader. Here are a few tips to avoid them.
Run-On Sentence
| Paul wrote that he was aware of the situation it has been a problem for several months. |
To correct, add a semi-colon* or full stop before it.
*Note: You can use a semi-colon in place of a full stop when the second independent clause is closely related to the first independent clause.
Revised
| Paul wrote that he was aware of the situation. It has been a problem for several months. |
Or
| Paul wrote that he was aware of the situation; it has been a problem for several months. |
Run-On Sentence
| Mary has authority to sign the form however she’s out of town for six weeks. |
To correct, add a semi-colon or full stop before however.
Revised
| Mary has authority to sign the form. However, she’s out of town for six weeks. |
Or
| Mary has authority to sign the form; however, she’s out of town for six weeks. |