Common Errors: Sentence Fragments

Common Errors In everyday practice, most writers make a limited number of errors in the basics, but repeat those errors often. Below is a list of frequently occurring errors and corrections with techniques to prevent them.

Conventional sentences have a subject and predicate, and any departure should be clearly intentional. Skillful writers use fragments effectively for special purposes (such as in dialogue: “Of course!”). What is not effective in good Army writing is a fragmentary thought. You must apply the conventions of grammar—the logic of language—to produce the clear communication that your readers need.

Example of a sentence fragment: When the Soldier wrote the perimeter defense plan.

Corrected sentence: The Soldier wrote the perimeter defense plan when she returned