Because the researchers tested for alkaline in the water, the experiment more accurately
determined the sample’s acid neutralization capabilities.
Here the focus is on the relationship the dependent clause has with the independent clause:
Testing for alkaline is the reason (“because”) the experiment can accurately determine acid
neutralization capabilities.
Punctuation: The choice to use a subordinating conjunction vs. a relative pronoun and the placement of
the dependent clause in the sentence all leads to different punctuation rules. For a complete
explanation of how to use commas when composing with dependent clauses, see our “Understanding
Commas” handout, particularly the sections detailing subordinating conjunctions and complex
sentences and non-restrictive clauses.
Avoiding Common Errors: Fragments
A dependent clause that is not attached to an independent clause is a fragment, a partial sentence
punctuated like a full sentence. The presence of a subordinating conjunction or relative pronoun is a
signal that additional information (in the form of an independent clause) is needed.
Subordinating Conjunction Fragment
While our society has declared racism to be a thing of the past.
Although there is a subject, “society,” and a verb, “has declared,” the subordinating conjunction “while”
signals that this is a dependent clause and cannot stand alone. To revise, a writer has two options:
1) Delete the subordinating conjunction:
While Our society has declared racism to be a thing of the past.
2) Connect to an independent clause:
While our society has declared racism to be a thing of the past, numerous racially charged
incidences continue to erupt across the country.
Relative Pronoun Fragment
Which resulted in unclear lab findings and a biased experiment.
In this case, the relative pronoun, “which,” stands in for the subject and is paired with the verb
“resulted.” But because “which” isn’t the full subject, this clause cannot stand alone. To revise, writers
can either:
1) Substitute the relative pronoun with the a subject:
The technician’s mistake resulted in unclear lab findings and a biased experiment.
2) Connect to an independent clause:
The technician’s mistake, which resulted in unclear lab findings and a biased experiment,
led to a second round of tests.