Recording-2025-03-03T18:38:55.118Z

Common Writing Errors

• The most common errors encountered in writing include:

  • Run-on sentences

  • Comma splices

  • Fragments

Sentence Structure

Independent Clauses

• Definition: An independent clause can stand alone as a complete sentence.

• Example: "I went to the store."

Dependent Clauses

• Definition: A dependent clause cannot stand alone and relies on an independent clause to form a complete thought.

• Characteristics:

  • Often missing a subject or verb.

  • Leaves the reader wanting more information.

  • Example of a fragment: "When I get to the store,"

Identifying Fragments

• Fragments are incomplete thoughts and are usually dependent clauses that lack enough information to make sense.

• Recognizing fragments involves asking whether the phrase conveys a complete thought.

• Example: "Because she left." (What happened because she left? This prompts further detail.)

Fixing Fragments

• There are multiple methods to correct fragments:

  • Add missing elements: Ensure the subject and verb are present.

    • Example: "When I get to the store, I will buy some eggs."

  • Combine with independent clause: Link to a logically related independent clause.

    • Example: "When I get to the store, I will buy some eggs if they have any left."

  • Reword: Alter the sentence construction for better clarity.

Dependent Words and Clauses

• Certain words signal the beginning of a dependent clause (subordinating conjunctions).

• Examples include:

  • When

  • Because

• Placing a comma after the dependent clause when it precedes the independent clause:

  • Correct usage: "When I get out of class, I will go to the store."

  • Incorrect: "When I get out of class, I will go to the store. When I do not need a comma."

The FANBOYS Conjunctions

• Definition: FANBOYS stands for coordinating conjunctions that connect clauses.

  • F: For

  • A: And

  • N: Nor

  • B: But

  • O: Or

  • Y: Yet

  • S: So

• Guidelines: Do not start sentences with FANBOYS in formal writing, as they require a previous context to connect to.

• Example: "I realized I forgot my wallet, so I had to drive back home."

Practice with Dependent Clauses

• Understanding fragments requires identifying accompanying clauses and correcting them accordingly:

  • Dependent clause: "Although she wasn't prepared,"

  • Corrected: "Although she wasn't prepared, she completed the assignment."

• Formulate complete thoughts instead of leaving sentences hanging.

Summary of Correct Sentence Structure

• A complete sentence should convey a clear idea or thought that stands independently, except when clarified by additional clauses.

• Each aspect of sentences should connect logically for seamless thought progression and clarity.