Compound & Complex Sentences

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What is a compound sentence?

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A compound sentence is a sentence that contains at least two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so). Example: "I wanted to go for a walk, but it started to rain."

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What is a complex sentence?

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A complex sentence is a sentence that contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause. Example: "Although it was raining, I went for a walk."

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What is a coordinating conjunction?

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A coordinating conjunction is a word that connects two independent clauses. The main coordinating conjunctions are for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so.

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What is a dependent clause?

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A dependent clause is a group of words that has both a subject and a verb but cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. Example: "Because I was tired."

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What is an independent clause?

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An independent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought. Example: "I went to the store."

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What punctuation is used before a coordinating conjunction in a compound sentence?

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A comma is used before a coordinating conjunction when it joins two independent clauses. Example: "I wanted to go out, but it was too cold."

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How do you punctuate a complex sentence?

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If the dependent clause comes first, use a comma before the independent clause. Example: "Although it was late, I decided to call her." If the independent clause comes first, no comma is needed. Example: "I decided to call her although it was late."

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What is the purpose of using a semicolon in a compound sentence?

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A semicolon can be used to connect two closely related independent clauses without a coordinating conjunction. Example: "I have a big test tomorrow; I can't go out tonight."

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What is a run-on sentence?

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A run-on sentence occurs when two or more independent clauses are joined without proper punctuation or conjunctions. Example: "I love to read I don't have time."

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What is a sentence fragment?

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A sentence fragment is a group of words that does not express a complete thought. Example: "Because I was late." This is not a complete sentence.