Handbook Index
• Improving Your Writing Style
• Stages of the Writing Process
• Common Writing Assignments
• Grammar and Punctuation
• • Using Dashes
  • Using Commas
  • Using Semicolons
  • Using Coordinating Conjunctions
  • Using Conjunctive Adverbs
  • Subject-Verb Agreement
  • How to Proofread
  • Twelve Common Errors: An Editing Checklist
  • Clear, Concise Sentences
• Cite References in Your Paper
• Writing Center Home

Home » Writer's Handbook

1. Sentence fragments

Make sure each word group you have punctuated as a sentence contains a grammatically complete and independent thought that can stand alone as an acceptable sentence.

Incorrect

Tests of the Shroud of Turin have produced some curious findings. For example, the pollen of forty-eight plants native to Europe and the Middle East.

[2nd sentence = fragment]

Correct

Tests of the Shroud of Turin have produced some curious findings. For example, the cloth contains the pollen of forty-eight plants native to Europe and the Middle East.

Incorrect

Scientists report no human deaths due to excessive caffeine consumption. Although caffeine does cause convulsions and death in certain animals.

[2nd sentence = fragment]

Incorrect

Scientists report no human deaths due to excessive caffeine consumption, although caffeine does cause convulsions and death in certain animals.

This list includes only brief examples and explanations intended for you to use as reminders while you are editing your papers. If you would like to learn more, consider the following options:

• Take one of the free grammar, style, and punctuation classes offered by the Writing Center.
• Set up an appointment for an individual conference in the Writing Center.
• Confer with your course instructor.
• Consult a handbook for additional examples and complete explanations.