Sentence Structure Intermediate · 10 min

Simple and Compound Sentences

Combine independent clauses correctly using coordinating conjunctions.

Rule Example · Practice
Grammar lesson

Simple and Compound Sentences

A simple sentence contains one independent clause. A compound sentence contains two or more independent clauses.

Use a coordinating conjunction such as and, but, or, so, for, nor, or yet to connect independent clauses.

Example

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

Place a comma before the coordinating conjunction when it joins two complete independent clauses.

Quick review

Before you continue

  • Understand when the structure is used.
  • Recognise the sentence pattern.
  • Create your own example.
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