Commas with Compound & Complex Sentences

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

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."

Front

What is a complex sentence?

Back

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."

Front

What is the purpose of a comma in a compound sentence?

Back

A comma is used before the coordinating conjunction to separate the independent clauses in a compound sentence. Example: "I wanted to play outside, but it was too cold."

Front

When should you use a comma before 'but'?

Back

You should use a comma before 'but' when it connects two independent clauses. Example: "She loves ice cream, but she is allergic to dairy."

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What is a dependent clause?

Back

A dependent clause is a group of words that has both a subject and a verb but does not express a complete thought. 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."

Front

How do you rewrite a complex sentence?

Back

To rewrite a complex sentence, you can change the order of the independent and dependent clauses. Example: "If it rains, we will stay inside." can be rewritten as "We will stay inside if it rains."

Front

What is the rule for using commas in a series?

Back

Use commas to separate three or more items in a series. Example: "I bought apples, oranges, and bananas."

Front

When is a comma not needed in a sentence?

Back

A comma is not needed when the clauses are short and closely related. Example: "I like tea and coffee."

Front

What is the function of a semicolon?

Back

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