Peter Horton - Educator

Sentence Structures

Introduction
To begin with, it is important to know whether a sentence is simple, compound, or complex. A writer must first understand the differences among these sentence types before using them effectively. Once this knowledge is gained, sentence variety becomes easier to achieve, which is essential for clear and engaging writing.

Simple Sentences

First, a simple sentence—also called an independent clause—contains a subject and a verb, and it expresses a complete thought. For example:

Some students like to study in the mornings.

Susan and Crystal like to have dinner at noon every day.

Shane goes to the library and studies every day.

Compound Sentences

Next, a compound sentence contains two independent clauses joined by a coordinator such as for, and, nor, but, or, yet, and so (FANBOYS). Generally, a comma comes before the coordinator. For example:

I tried to speak Spanish, and my friend tried to speak English.

Shane played football, so Christina went shopping.

Tony played football, for Mary Ann went shopping.

Complex Sentences

Afterward, a complex sentence has one independent clause joined by one or more dependent clauses. Subordinators such as because, since, after, although, or when are used. For example:

When he handed in his homework, he forgot to give the teacher the last page.

The teacher returned the homework after she noticed the error.

The students are studying because they have a test tomorrow.

After they finished studying, Juan and Maria went to the movies.

Summary

In conclusion, by learning how to write simple, compound, and complex sentences, writers can create variety and flow in their work. These structures not only improve essays but also make communication clearer and more effective.