Simple Sentences:
* Structure: A simple sentence has one independent clause. An independent clause contains a subject and a verb and can stand alone as a complete thought.
* Example: "The dog barked." (Subject: "dog," Verb: "barked")
Compound Sentences:
* Structure: A compound sentence has two or more independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so).
* Example: "The dog barked, and the cat hissed." (Two independent clauses joined by "and")
Complex Sentences:
* Structure: A complex sentence has one independent clause and one or more dependent clauses. A dependent clause cannot stand alone as a complete thought and is often introduced by a subordinating conjunction (e.g., because, although, since, while, if, when).
* Example: "Because the dog barked, the cat hissed." (Independent clause: "The cat hissed"; dependent clause: "Because the dog barked")
Key Differences:
* Number of clauses: Simple sentences have one clause; compound sentences have two or more; complex sentences have one independent clause and at least one dependent clause.
* Connection: Simple sentences are stand-alone thoughts. Compound sentences connect two or more equal thoughts. Complex sentences create a relationship of dependence between clauses.
In a nutshell:
* Simple: One thought.
* Compound: Two or more equal thoughts joined together.
* Complex: One main thought with additional details or reasons.