Commas with compound and complex sentences

key notes :

1. Commas in Compound Sentences

A compound sentence joins two independent clauses (complete thoughts) using a coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS: For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So).

Rule: Place a comma before the coordinating conjunction.

Example:

• Incorrect: I wanted to play outside but it started to rain.
• Correct: I wanted to play outside, but it started to rain.

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2. Commas in Complex Sentences

A complex sentence has one independent clause and at least one dependent clause.

Rule 1: When a dependent clause comes before the independent clause, place a comma after the dependent clause.

Example:

• Incorrect: If it rains we will stay inside.
• Correct: If it rains, we will stay inside.

Rule 2: If the dependent clause comes after the independent clause, no comma is needed.

Example:

• Incorrect: We will stay inside, if it rains.
• Correct: We will stay inside if it rains.

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3. Common Mistakes to Avoid

✅ Use a comma before a conjunction in a compound sentence.
✅ Use a comma after a dependent clause if it starts the sentence.
🚫 Do not use a comma when the dependent clause comes second.

Let’s practice!🖊️