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Simple Sentence

A simple sentence contains one independent clause, in which the verb is finite, i.e.
tense verb. For example:

He saw the most wonderful sight.
O
I beg your pardon.
O

Compound Sentence

A compound sentence contains two independent sentences. These sentences are joined by
any of the coordinating conjunctions. There are seven coordinating conjunctions: For, And,
Nor, But, Or, Yet, So (FANBOYS).

My sister is in class 12, and I am in class 7.
O
My friend’s favourite fruit is banana, but my favourite fruit is mango.
O

Complex Sentence

A complex sentence contains one independent clause and one or more dependent clauses.
A dependent clause begins with a subordinating conjunction. Some of the subordinating
connections are: after, although, as, as if, as long as, because, before, despite, if, even if,
since, whether and while.

I am reading this topic because I want to learn the structure of complex sentences.
O
Since he was not at his office, I could not meet him.
O
If a sentence begins with a dependent clause, as a rule, we use a comma to separate it from
the independent clause. If a sentence begins with an independent clause, no comma is to be
used. For clarity, read the above sentence carefully.

Practice Time 3

A. State whether the following sentences are simple, compound, complex.

The Sentence 2. He puts in hard work, but he fails to complete the task.

1. In spite of putting hard work, he could not complete the task.

3. His efficiency level is so low that he fails to complete the task.

4. When he is given a task, he works really hard.

5. He sings a song and simultaneously plays the guitar.

B. Read the following sentences, and write whether they are simple sentence, compound
sentence or complex sentence.

1. My uncle is a doctor in New York. ________________

2. After the sun sets, I do not go outside. ________________
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