Three elementary types of sentences include simple, complex and compound.
Simple= is a main clause(like we learnt before), contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete idea:
'I like dogs.'
Complex= main clause joined by one(or two) subordinate clause(s). Complex sentences can start with because, since, after, although, or when or a relative pronoun such as that, who, or which. If they do start with one of these, you put a comma in between the clauses:
'When she cried, he remembered how much he hated her.'
If the secondary clause begins with any of the above you do NOT need a separating comma:
'He remembered how much he hated her when she cried.'
Compound= two main clauses joined by a coordinator, this includes for, and, nor, but, or, yet, and so:
'The man took my chips, so I shot his hand.'
You put a comma before a coordinator to separate the clauses. You don't use a comma if the coordinator is joining phrases or words:
'She walked and then ran, but she was still cold.'
Yes, I really do love chips.
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For The Forgetful- The Complete Writer's Guide
Non-FictionIf you're struggling with punctuation, dialogue, spelling or grammar, have a read of this simple guide to the components of writing, copyright, and publishing. [UNEDITED VERSION- Full, edited version to be released soon!]
