Sentence Types and Structures

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What is a simple sentence?

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A simple sentence contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought.

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What is a compound sentence?

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A compound sentence consists of two or more independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS).

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What is a complex sentence?

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A complex sentence contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause, often using subordinating conjunctions (SWABI).

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What is an interrogative sentence?

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An interrogative sentence asks a question and ends with a question mark.

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What is a declarative sentence?

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A declarative sentence makes a statement and ends with a period.

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What is an imperative sentence?

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An imperative sentence gives a command or request and can end with a period or an exclamation mark.

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What is an exclamatory sentence?

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An exclamatory sentence expresses strong emotion and ends with an exclamation mark.

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What are FANBOYS?

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FANBOYS are coordinating conjunctions: For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So.

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What are SWABI?

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SWABI are subordinating conjunctions: Since, When, After, Because, If.

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How can you identify a compound sentence?

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A compound sentence can be identified by the presence of a coordinating conjunction connecting two independent clauses.