For clarity and style, vary sentence types when writing a text. Also consider Common Sentence Patterns in English.
Simple sentence
A simple sentence is a sentence that has only one independent clause, which means it has one subject and one verb that can stand alone as a complete thought. Notice in the examples below that a simple sentence can be rather short or long.
- She loves chocolate.
- The sky is blue.
- My sister loves eating white chocolate under the clear blue sky of an autumn frost.
Complex sentence
A complex sentence is a sentence that has one independent clause and one or more dependent clauses, which means it has a subject and a verb that can stand alone as a complete thought, but also has another part that cannot. A dependent clause usually starts with a subordinating conjunction, such as because, although, when, etc.
- She loves chocolate because it makes her happy.
- The sky is blue although it was cloudy.
Compound sentence
A compound sentence is a sentence that has two or more independent clauses, which means it has two or more subjects and verbs that can stand alone as complete thoughts. A compound sentence usually joins the independent clauses with a coordinating conjunction, such as and, but, or, so, etc.
- She loves chocolate and he hates it.
- The sky is blue but the sun is shining.
Compound-complex sentence
A compound-complex sentence is a sentence that has two or more independent clauses and one or more dependent clauses, which means it combines the features of both compound and complex sentences. A compound-complex sentence usually joins the independent clauses with a coordinating conjunction and the dependent clause with a subordinating conjunction.
- She loves chocolate because it makes her happy, but he hates it.
- The sky is blue although it was cloudy, so we decided to go outside.
When writing a compound sentence, the comma is usually used to separate the two main clauses unless one of the two main clauses happens to be rather short. When in doubt, use the comma.
Writing discourse and sentence type
In discursive writing, you should consider the type of sentences you use to convey your ideas clearly and effectively. Depending on your purpose and audience, you may want to use different types of sentences to create variety and interest in your writing. Here are some tips on how to choose the best type of sentences for your discursive writing:
- Use simple sentences when you want to make a strong point or state an obvious fact. Simple sentences are easy to understand and can help you emphasize your message.
- Use complex sentences when you want to add more detail or explanation to your point or fact. Complex sentences can help you show cause and effect relationships or contrast different ideas.
- Use compound sentences when you want to connect two related points or facts. Compound sentences can help you show addition or sequence of events.
- Use complex-compound sentences when you want to combine both detail and connection in your writing. Complex-compound sentences can help you show multiple aspects of an issue or argument.
