Commas with compound and complex sentences

key notes :

What Are Compound Sentences?

• A compound sentence consists of two independent clauses (complete sentences) joined by a coordinating conjunction like and, but, or, so, for, nor, yet.
• Example: “I wanted to go to the park, but it started to rain.”

Using Commas in Compound Sentences

• Place a comma before the coordinating conjunction when combining two independent clauses.
• Example: “She finished her homework, and she went outside to play.”

What Are Complex Sentences?

• A complex sentence consists of one independent clause and at least one dependent (subordinate) clause.
• Dependent clauses often begin with subordinating conjunctions such as because, when, although, if, since, after, while.
• Example: “Because it was raining, we stayed inside.”

Using Commas in Complex Sentences

• If the dependent clause comes before the independent clause, use a comma after the dependent clause.
• Example: “When the bell rang, the students left the classroom.”
• If the independent clause comes first, you don’t need a comma.
• Example: “The students left the classroom when the bell rang.”

Comma Rules Recap

• Compound Sentences: Use a comma before the coordinating conjunction.
• Complex Sentences: Use a comma if the dependent clause comes first.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t place a comma between two independent clauses without a coordinating conjunction (this is a comma splice).
• Don’t use a comma in complex sentences when the independent clause is first.

Let’s practice!🖊️