How can I avoid sentence fragments?

To avoid sentence fragments, it is important to ensure that each sentence contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought. Here are some strategies to help you avoid sentence fragments:

1. Identify the subject and verb: Make sure that every sentence has a clear subject (the person, thing, or idea that performs the action) and a verb (the action or state of being). If either of these elements is missing, the sentence may become a fragment.

2. Connect dependent clauses: If you have a dependent clause (a group of words that cannot stand alone as a sentence), make sure to connect it to an independent clause (a complete sentence that can stand alone) to form a complete thought.

3. Avoid starting sentences with conjunctions: While it is acceptable to start a sentence with a conjunction (such as "and," "but," or "because") in informal writing, it can sometimes lead to sentence fragments. To avoid this, ensure that the sentence following the conjunction is a complete thought.

4. Check for subordination: Subordinate clauses (dependent clauses) often require an independent clause to complete the thought. Make sure that if you include a subordinate clause, it is properly connected to an independent clause.

5. Revise incomplete thoughts: If you notice any incomplete thoughts or phrases that do not express a complete idea, revise them by adding necessary information or connecting them to other sentences.

By following these strategies and carefully reviewing your writing, you can effectively avoid sentence fragments and ensure that your sentences are clear, concise, and grammatically correct.