Simple, Compound, & Complex Sentences

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What is a simple sentence?

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A simple sentence contains one independent clause and expresses a complete thought. Example: 'The dog barks.'

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What is a compound sentence?

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A compound sentence contains at least two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction or a semicolon. Example: 'I wanted to go for a walk, but it started to rain.'

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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. Example: 'Although it was raining, we went for a walk.'

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What is an independent clause?

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An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a sentence. It has a subject and a verb. Example: 'She enjoys reading.'

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What is a dependent clause?

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A dependent clause cannot stand alone as a sentence and usually begins with a subordinating conjunction. Example: 'Because she was tired.'

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What is a subordinating conjunction?

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A subordinating conjunction connects a dependent clause to an independent clause. Examples include 'because,' 'although,' and 'while.'

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What is a coordinating conjunction?

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A coordinating conjunction connects words, phrases, or independent clauses. The most common are 'for,' 'and,' 'nor,' 'but,' 'or,' 'yet,' and 'so.' (FANBOYS)

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What is the formula for a compound sentence?

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The formula for a compound sentence is IC ; IC or IC, and IC.

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What is the formula for a complex sentence?

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The formula for a complex sentence is IC DC or DC, IC.

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Where should you place a comma in a compound sentence?

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A comma should be placed before the coordinating conjunction that joins two independent clauses. Example: 'I wanted to go outside, but it was raining.'