Punctuating Compound 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).

Front

What is a coordinating conjunction?

Back

A coordinating conjunction is a word that connects two independent clauses. The seven coordinating conjunctions are for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so.

Front

When should you use a comma in a compound sentence?

Back

A comma should be used before the coordinating conjunction when joining two independent clauses.

Front

Example of a compound sentence with a comma:

Back

I wanted to go for a walk, but it started to rain.

Front

Example of a compound sentence without a comma:

Back

I wanted to go for a walk and enjoy the sunshine.

Front

Does the sentence 'I went to the store for I needed a carton of milk' need a comma?

Back

Yes, it should be 'I went to the store, for I needed a carton of milk.'

Front

Does the sentence 'Thomas was sad because he hadn't yet won an Olympic medal in synchronized swimming' need a comma?

Back

No, it does not need a comma.

Front

Does the sentence 'It was raining in Kansas but it was sunny in New Jersey' need a comma?

Back

Yes, it should be 'It was raining in Kansas, but it was sunny in New Jersey.'

Front

Does the sentence 'I liked dogs but I did not like cats' need a comma?

Back

Yes, it should be 'I liked dogs, but I did not like cats.'

Front

Does the sentence 'The alien wore a gown and a hat' need a comma?

Back

No, it does not need a comma.