Commas in Compound and Complex Sentences

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What is a compound sentence?

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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).

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What is a complex sentence?

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

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When should you use a comma before a coordinating conjunction?

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A comma should be used before a coordinating conjunction when it connects two independent clauses.

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When is a comma not needed in a sentence?

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A comma is not needed when the clauses are closely related and the sentence is clear without it.

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What is the purpose of a comma in a sentence?

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Commas are used to indicate a pause, separate elements in a list, or clarify meaning.

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How do you punctuate a sentence with 'but' connecting two independent clauses?

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You should place a comma before 'but' when it connects two independent clauses.

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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.

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What is a dependent clause?

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A dependent clause is a group of words that cannot stand alone as a sentence; it does not express a complete thought.

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When should you add a comma after introductory phrases?

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A comma should be added after introductory phrases or clauses to separate them from the main clause.

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What is an example of a sentence that requires a comma before 'and'?

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Example: 'I wanted to go to the park, and my friend wanted to go to the beach.'