APA Rules for Run-On Sentences: A Guide for Academic ESL Writers

Question

Hey there! 👋 Ever feel like your sentences are just...running on and on? 😩 It's super common, especially when you're writing in English as a second language. I always struggled with run-on sentences in my APA papers until I learned the rules. Let's break down how to fix them!

michael151 · Accepted Answer

📚 What is a Run-On Sentence in APA Style?

In APA style, a run-on sentence occurs when two or more independent clauses (clauses that could stand alone as complete sentences) are improperly joined together. This often happens when there's only a comma connecting the clauses (a comma splice) or when there's no punctuation at all.

📜 A Brief History of Run-On Sentence Rules

The rules surrounding run-on sentences have evolved alongside the development of formal writing styles. Early style guides focused heavily on sentence length and complexity. As academic writing became more standardized, clarity and precision became paramount, leading to stricter guidelines on how to properly connect independent clauses.

🔑 Key Principles for Correcting Run-On Sentences

🤝 Use a Coordinating Conjunction: Join independent clauses with a comma followed by a coordinating conjunction (and, but, or, nor, for, so, yet).
➗ Divide into Separate Sentences: Break the run-on into two or more distinct sentences.
🔗 Use a Semicolon: Connect closely related independent clauses with a semicolon.
📝 Use a Subordinating Conjunction: Turn one of the independent clauses into a dependent clause with a subordinating conjunction (although, because, since, if, when, while).

💡 Real-World Examples and Corrections

Example 1 (Comma Splice):

Incorrect: The experiment was successful, the results were significant.

Correct: The experiment was successful, and the results were significant. (Coordinating Conjunction)

Example 2 (Fused Sentence):

Incorrect: The data was analyzed the conclusions were drawn.

Correct: The data was analyzed; the conclusions were drawn. (Semicolon)

Example 3 (Run-On with Subordination):

Incorrect: The participants arrived late the study began an hour behind schedule.

Correct: Because the participants arrived late, the study began an hour behind schedule. (Subordinating Conjunction)

✅ Practice Quiz

Identify and correct the run-on sentences in the following examples, using the methods described above.

The weather was cold, we decided to stay inside.
She finished her presentation she felt relieved.
The book was long it was also very interesting.
He studied hard he passed the exam.
The birds were singing the sun was shining.

⭐ Conclusion

Mastering APA rules for run-on sentences is essential for clear and professional academic writing. By understanding the principles and practicing the techniques discussed, you can improve the clarity and credibility of your work. Keep practicing and you'll get there!