Punctuating Complex Sentences

Front

What is a complex sentence?

Back

A complex sentence is a sentence that contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause.

Front

When should you use a comma in a complex sentence?

Back

Use a comma before a coordinating conjunction that connects two independent clauses, and after introductory dependent clauses.

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

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

Front

What is a dependent clause?

Back

A dependent clause is a group of words that cannot stand alone as a sentence; it depends on an independent clause to provide meaning.

Front

Example of a complex sentence with a dependent clause at the beginning.

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"If it rains tomorrow, we will cancel the picnic."

Front

Example of a complex sentence with a dependent clause at the end.

Back

"We will cancel the picnic if it rains tomorrow."

Front

What punctuation is needed after an introductory dependent clause?

Back

A comma is needed after an introductory dependent clause.

Front

What is the rule for punctuating a complex sentence with a dependent clause at the end?

Back

If the dependent clause comes at the end of the sentence, no comma is needed before it.

Front

Identify the error: "Although she was tired she finished her homework."

Back

A comma is needed after "tired" to separate the dependent clause from the independent clause.

Front

Identify the error: "Because I was late I missed the bus."

Back

A comma is needed after "late" to separate the dependent clause from the independent clause.