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Sentence Types

(Grammar)

  Rule Examples

Simple

A simple sentence has one independent clause, with at least 1 verb and 1 subject.

1.  This is a simple sentence.

 

2. The essay is due on Wednesday.

 

Compound

 A compound sentence has 2 or more independent clauses joined by For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So (FANBOYS) or a transition word.

1. This is a compound sentence, and it has at least two separate subjects and two separate verbs. 

 

2.  The essay needs to include proper citation and a reference page, and it is due on Wednesday at noon.

 

Complex

 A complex sentence has an independent clause plus 1 or more dependent clauses, an adjective, adverb, or noun clause.

1. If a sentence is complex, it will have an adjective, adverb, or noun clause. 

 

2. The essay is due on Wednesday at noon, although you can turn it in much earlier.

 

Compound-Complex

A compound-complex sentence has 2 or more independent clauses plus 1 or more dependent clauses. 

1. Although complex sentences are common in academic writing, compound-complex sentences are also common, but they can be confusing. 

 

2. The essay must have proper citation, and it is due on Wednesday at noon, although you can turn it in earlier.