1. Subject:
* The sentence must have a subject, which is the person, place, thing, or idea that the sentence is about.
* It usually performs the action of the verb.
* Example: The cat sat on the mat.
2. Verb:
* The sentence must have a verb, which describes the action or state of being of the subject.
* Example: The cat sat on the mat.
3. Complete Thought:
* The sentence must express a complete thought. This means it must have a clear beginning, middle, and end.
* Example: The cat sat on the mat and purred softly.
4. Proper Grammar:
* The sentence must follow the rules of English grammar, including subject-verb agreement, correct tense, and proper punctuation.
* Example: The cats are sitting on the mat. (Subject-verb agreement)
5. Capitalization:
* The first word of a sentence must be capitalized.
* Example: The cat sat on the mat.
6. Punctuation:
* The sentence must end with proper punctuation, usually a period (.), question mark (?), or exclamation point (!).
* Example: The cat sat on the mat.
Important Notes:
* Fragments: A sentence fragment lacks one or more of these essential elements and does not express a complete thought.
* Example: Sat on the mat. (Missing subject)
* Run-on Sentences: A run-on sentence combines two or more complete sentences without proper punctuation or conjunctions.
* Example: The cat sat on the mat the dog barked at him.
* Clauses: Sentences can be composed of one or more clauses, which are groups of words containing a subject and verb.
Understanding these basic requirements will help you construct clear and grammatically correct English sentences.