3. Correct Run-On by Adding a Dependent Word

A third way to correct run-ons is to make one of the complete sentences a dependent clause by adding a dependent word (a subordinating conjunction or a relative pronoun), such as after, because, before, even though, if, that, though, unless, when, who, and which. (For a more complete list of these words, see the graphic on “Fragments that Start with Dependent Words”.) When the dependent clause is the second clause in a sentence, you usually do not need to put a comma before it unless it is showing contrast.

NOTE: If the dependent clause following the independent clause shows a contrast, a comma is needed.

Many holidays have religious origins, though some celebrations have moved away from their religious roots.

DEPENDENT WORDS

after now that what(ever)
although once when(ever)
as since where
because so that whether
before that which(ever)
even if / though though while
how unless who
if / if only until
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You can also put the dependent clause first. When the dependent clause comes first, be sure to put a comma after it.

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NOTE: You can use the word then to join two sentences, but if you add it without the correct punctuation or added words, your sentence will be a run-on.

COMMA SPLICE I picked up my laundry, then I went home.

Correct errors caused by then just as you would correct any other run-on.

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