Compound Sentences


Independent Clauses

A simple sentence can also be called an independent clause. An independent clause is a subject and verb that is a complete idea. It does not need more information to complete the thought.

You can connect separate independent clauses (simple sentences) using a coordinating conjunction. Coordinating conjunctions are words that connect the two sentences together. You use them when the ideas in the sentences are connected.

  • I have a dog, and I want another dog.

See that both sentences are complete. You can separate them with a period. However, the meaning of the sentences is connected, so you can use a coordinating conjunction to make the connection clear. When a sentence has more than one independent clause, it is called a compound sentence.

Coordinating Conjunctions

Coordinating conjunctions in English are for, and, nor, but, or, yet, and so. We often use the word FANBOYS to remember these words. When you use a coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS), you will use a comma before the second independent clause.

  • F – Bring an umbrella, for it will rain this afternoon.
    • This word shows a cause or reason connection.
    • This is more formal and not common.
  • A – Reading class is first, and writing class is second.
    • This word shows addition, time order, or cause/reason.
  • N – I never liked broccoli, nor will I ever like it.
    • This shows that both clauses are not true or do not happen.
    • This is use more in formal English.
  • B – Rei was late to class, but he did participate.
    • This shows a difference connection.
  • O – My classmates are going to karaoke, or they are going bowling.
    • This word shows a choice between the clauses.
    • It is often used in questions.
  • Y – I did the homework, yet I still have many questions.
    • This word is used like but to show a difference connection.
  • S – We need money, so we will get jobs.
    • This conjunction shows a cause or reason connection like for.


Exercise 1: Choose the Best FANBOYS Conjunction

Each sentence is missing a coordinating conjunction. Choose the correct FANBOYS word (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so).

  1. I wanted to study, ______ my friends invited me to dinner.

  2. He studied all night, ______ he failed the test.

  3. We can go to the park, ______ we can watch a movie.

  4. The class ended early, ______ I stayed to ask questions.

  5. I was tired, ______ I kept working.

  6. She has never been to Japan, ______ has she visited Korea.

  7. He forgot his umbrella, ______ it rained all day.

  8. I took the bus, ______ I arrived on time.


Exercise 2: Combine the Sentences

Each pair of sentences can be combined into one compound sentence using a coordinating conjunction. Use a comma and choose the correct FANBOYS word.

  1. I like pizza. I don’t like pasta.

  1. She arrived late. She joined the meeting quickly.

  1. We went to the museum. We had lunch after.

  1. My car is old. It still runs well.

  1. He didn’t study. He passed the exam.

  1. The teacher was speaking. The students were listening.

  1. The café was busy. We found a table.

  1. You can take the train. You can ride the bus.



Exercise 3: Choose the Best FANBOYS Conjunction

Each sentence has two independent clauses. Underline both independent clauses. Circle the coordinating conjunction.

  1. I have a dog, and I want another dog.

  2. Reading class is first, and writing class is second.

  3. My classmates are going to karaoke, or they are going bowling.

  4. Rei was late to class, but he did participate.

  5. I did the homework, yet I still have many questions.

  6. We need money, so we will get jobs.

  7. I never liked broccoli, nor will I ever like it.

  8. Bring an umbrella, for it will rain this afternoon.


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