Dependent & Independent Clauses

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What is an independent clause?

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An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a complete sentence. It has a subject and a verb.

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What is a dependent clause?

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A dependent clause is a group of words that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It has a subject and a verb but does not express a complete thought.

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What is the purpose of a dependent clause?

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A dependent clause adds additional information to an independent clause, often providing context or detail.

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What are AWUBIS words?

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AWUBIS words are subordinating conjunctions that introduce dependent clauses. They include: Although, While, Until, Because, If, and Since.

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When should you use a comma with dependent clauses?

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Use a comma before the dependent clause if it comes at the beginning of a sentence. No comma is needed if it comes after the independent clause.

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What is an example of an independent clause?

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"She loves to read books." This is a complete thought and can stand alone.

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What is an example of a dependent clause?

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"Because she loves to read" cannot stand alone as a complete sentence.

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How do you identify an independent clause in a sentence?

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Look for a subject and a verb that express a complete thought. If it can stand alone, it's an independent clause.

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How do you identify a dependent clause in a sentence?

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Look for a subject and a verb that do not express a complete thought and often start with an AWUBIS word.

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What is the correct punctuation for a sentence with a dependent clause at the beginning?

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Place a comma after the dependent clause. Example: "Although it was raining, we went for a walk."