Commas: Compound Sentences, 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

When should you use a comma before a coordinating conjunction?

Back

You should use a comma before a coordinating conjunction when it connects two independent clauses. Example: "I wanted to go to the park, but it was closed."

Front

What is the purpose of a comma in a sentence?

Back

A comma is used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence, to separate items in a list, or to clarify meaning.

Front

How do you punctuate a compound sentence?

Back

In a compound sentence, place a comma before the coordinating conjunction that connects the two independent clauses. Example: "I like apples, and she likes oranges."

Front

What is a subordinate clause?

Back

A subordinate clause is a group of words that has both a subject and a verb but cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. Example: "Because I was tired."

Front

When do you use a comma after a subordinate clause?

Back

Use a comma after a subordinate clause when it comes before the independent clause. Example: "If it rains, we will stay inside."

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a complete sentence. Example: "She enjoys reading."

Front

How do you punctuate a complex sentence?

Back

In a complex sentence, if the subordinate clause comes first, use a comma before the independent clause. Example: "When I finish my homework, I will watch TV."

Front

What is a list and how do you use commas in it?

Back

A list is a series of items. Use commas to separate items in a list. Example: "I bought apples, oranges, bananas, and grapes."