What is a common way to fix a run-on sentence?

• A. Remove the comma splice by adding punctuation or a conjunction.
• B. Add punctuation or a conjunction.
• C. Leave the sentence as is.
• D. Turn it into a question.

Answer: (B)

A run-on sentence happens when two complete thoughts are joined without proper separation. A common fix is to add punctuation or a conjunction between the two parts. This means you can separate the ideas into two sentences with a period, use a semicolon, or connect them with a coordinating conjunction like and, but, or after a comma. For example: She went to the store, and she bought milk. Or: She went to the store; she bought milk. Or: She went to the store. She bought milk.

This approach is best because it covers the usual ways to properly link or separate two independent ideas, correcting the structure so each clause stands correctly. Leaving it as is keeps the sentence running too long and confusing. Turning it into a question doesn’t address the underlying connection between the two thoughts, and focusing only on a comma splice is too narrow for all run-ons.