Simple, Compound, Complex Sentences

A simple sentence consists of a single independent clause with no dependent clauses. It expresses a complete thought. Example: 'The dog barks.'

A compound sentence 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.'

A complex sentence contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause. Example: 'Although it was raining, we went for a walk.'

Subordinating conjunctions are words that connect an independent clause with a dependent clause. Examples include 'because,' 'although,' 'if,' and 'when.'

Summer is not a subordinating conjunction.

A comma is required when the dependent clause precedes the independent clause. Example: 'If it rains, we will stay inside.' No comma is needed if the independent clause comes first.

A dependent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb but does not express a complete thought. It cannot stand alone as a sentence. Example: 'Because I was late.'

An independent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought. Example: 'I finished my homework.'

This is a complex sentence.

This is a simple sentence.