Improving Sentence Structure in Writing

The Importance of Improving Sentence Structure

• Sentence structure matters because of the use of modifiers in English, which can add confusion instead of clarity to a sentence if not placed correctly.

Modifiers and Sentence Structure

• A modifier is a word or phrase that provides description in a sentence.
• Putting a modifier in the wrong place can add confusion to a sentence.
• Example: 'Only I love you!' vs. 'I love only you!'

Dangling Modifiers

• A dangling modifier is a modifier that is not clearly linked to the word it modifies.
• Example: 'To improve his building skills, a video was watched.' vs. 'In order to improve his building skills, our friend watched a video.'

Sentence Fragments

• A sentence fragment is an incomplete sentence.
• Sentence fragments can be incomplete because they are no longer attached to their clauses.
• Example: 'It is important to eat vegetables every day. Having a variety.' vs. 'Having a variety of vegetables can help us consume more of them.'

Run-on Sentences

• A run-on sentence occurs when two or more independent clauses are joined without appropriate punctuation or conjunction.

Passive Voice

• Passive voice makes a sentence harder to follow.
• In passive voice, the target of an action is put in the subject position even though they aren't doing anything.
• Example: 'The doll was bathed by Sally.' vs. 'Sally bathed the doll.'

Improving Sentence Structure

• Ensure the information within the sentence is clear.
• Use transitional words to help the reader follow along.
• Use care with subordinate clauses, placing them at the beginning or end of the sentence.
• Use active voice and active verbs to make sentences easier to read and understand.
• Follow traditional grammatical rules, including using commas appropriately, using complete sentences, and following appropriate spelling rules.

Learn how to improve your writing by structuring your sentences effectively. Discover how to avoid jumbled writing and create a cohesive piece.