So instead of compiling more Spelling and Grammar chapters, I'll be breaking them down into individual sections.

So... run-ons.

This is something I see a lot with beginner writers.

First thing's first: what is a run-on sentence?

(My phone keeps autocorrecting run-on to run-in so if I miss any of those in my proofread I'm sorry)

According to Walden University, a run-on sentence is "when two or more independent clauses (also known as complete sentences) are connected improperly."

And it makes your audience facepalm.

So, needless to say, you should avoid these as best you can.

Here is an example of a run-on sentence:

"I love to go to the beach it's so sunny there and I love the ocean."

I cringed just writing that...

When someone writes these, they sound like a little kid rambling on about some junk.

And you definitely do not want to sound like a little kid when you write.

How to find run-on sentences in your writing:

-proofreading, proofreading, and more proofreading! Pay special attention to big paragraphs, as run-ons can easily hide there.

-It will also help if you say your sentences out loud and notice orally whether you should add some more punctuation.

How to fix run-on sentences in your writing:

-use commas (,). They provide a pause in your reader's mind and can help sort out and separate parts of your sentences. You should use commas before conjunctions (and, or, but, yet, etc.) joining independent clauses (complete sentences).

-use semicolons (;). They're like commas, but not the same thing. Semicolons are used to separate independent clauses (complete sentences) that are joined by conjunctive adverbs (however, indeed, then, next, otherwise, thus, etc.) or transitional phrases (word phrases that include a conjunctive adverb).

Sorry if that part got kind of confusing.

There is one instance I can think of when it's okay to use run-on sentences in a written work, and that's in dialogue. Still, in most cases please avoid using run-ons, but, for instance, if a character is freaking out about something, it's okay to have them ramble a bit, much like we would in real life.

So... yeah!