Chapter 47: Fragments
CHAPTER 47CONNECT: When might you choose to use a fragment for a particular effect? 2a, 47a
CREATE: Keep a log of the fragments you see in professional writing (such as advertising) in a single day. Note the context of each one.
REFLECT: Write or record a reflection about the effect of fragments in professional writing.
SENTENCE FRAGMENTS are often used to make writing sound conversational, as in this Facebook status update:
Realizing that there are no edible bagels in this part of Oregon. Sigh.
Fragments—groups of words that are punctuated as sentences but are not sentences—are often seen in intentionally informal writing and in public writing, such as advertising, that aims to attract attention or give a phrase special emphasis. Think carefully before using fragments in academic or professional writing, where some readers might regard them as errors.