Writing Style

A run-on sentence is an error of missing punctuation or conjunctions between two sentences. To repair this error, you can add the following: (a) a period, (b) a comma and coordinating conjunction, or (c) a semicolon. Do not add a comma alone to repair the run-on as this creates a different error, the comma splice. 

Run-On Example
The data collection of the self-administered questionnaire was described in detail the authors did not mention who collected the data.

Period
The data collection of the self-administered questionnaire was described in detail. The authors did not mention who collected the data.

Comma and Coordinating Conjunction
The data collection of the self-administered questionnaire was described in detail, but the authors did not mention who collected the data.

Semicolon
The data collection of the self-administered questionnaire was described in detail; however, the authors did not mention who collected the data.

A semicolon is most often used with a transitional word or phrase that introduces the next clause.

More Information

"Run-On Sentences," Mount Saint Vincent University