University Writing Lab: 10 Most Common Errors in Grammar and Punctuation

Introduction

• Workshop to address common grammar and punctuation errors encountered in writing.

Sentence Fragments

• Definition: Incomplete sentences that lack a subject and/or a verb.
• Independent Clause: Must have a subject and a verb to stand alone.
• Subjects: Main character of the sentence, typically a noun.
• Three Verb Types:
  • Active Verbs: Subject performs the action (e.g., "John caught the ball").
  • Passive Verbs: Action is done to the subject (e.g., "The ball was caught by John").
  • Linking Verbs: Connects subject to additional information (e.g., "John is a goalie").

Run-On Sentences

• Definition: Two sentences joined without appropriate punctuation.
• Correction Methods:
  1. Divide into separate sentences.
  2. Use a comma and conjunction (FANBOYS: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so).
  3. Use a semicolon.

Subject-Verb Agreement

• Rule: Subjects and verbs must match in number and person.
• Examples:
  • "Tutors at the writing lab are interested" (Correct plural agreement).
  • "The swarm of bees pollinates the flowers" (Correct singular agreement).

Parallel Sentence Structure

• Definition: Sentences that maintain consistent tense, voice, and person.
• Examples:
  • Correct tense: "Just yesterday, I prayed"
  • Correct person: "We are going to the store"

Comma Usage

Comma Splices

• Definition: Two independent clauses joined by a comma without a conjunction.
• Correction Methods:
  • Use a semicolon or period.
  • Use a comma and conjunction.

Missing Comma in Compound Sentences

• Rule: Use a comma before the conjunction in compound sentences.
• Examples:
  • "Tina read Frankenstein, but she didn't enjoy it."

Missing Commas with Non-Essential Elements

• Definition: Non-essential elements add information without altering the sentence’s core meaning and are set off by commas.
• Examples:
  • "Peter, the oldest child, enjoys listening to the radio."

Essential Elements Without Commas

• Rule: Do not use commas for essential elements that define or modify the noun.
• Examples:
  • "The pizzas that only had cheese were on sale."

Missing Comma After Introductory Elements

• Rule: Use a comma after introductory clauses or phrases.
• Examples:
  • "After the movie, we went to a park."

Missing Comma in a Series (Oxford Comma)

• Rule: Include a comma before the last item in a list of three or more.
• Examples:
  • "Consumers prefer waffles because of their density, texture, and flavor."

Conclusion

• For more resources, visit the Writing Lab for appointments, sessions, and resources at www.regent.edu/writing.
• Thank you for participating.