IELTS writing

Compound sentences

Compound sentence examples and some helpful punctuation hints between commas, colons, dashes and semi-colons.

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Compound sentences
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Simple sentence vs compound sentence

  • Simple sentence: I like strawberries but not peas.
  • Compound sentence: I like strawberries, but I do not like peas.

Requirements for compound sentences

These contain two or more independent clauses (complete sentences) that are joined using any of the following via conjunctions:

  • Comma
  • Semi-colon
  • Semi-colon,
  • Colon
  • Dash

Comma and coordinating/correlative conjunctions

Coordinating conjunctions are conjunctions that join clauses of independent or equal rank. An easy way to remember them is via the mnemonic device, FANBOYS.

  • For: I do not eat bread, for I am allergic to wheat.
  • And: I have to work, and I have to take care of the baby.
  • Nor: He could not hear us, nor could he comprehend what we were hand-signing from afar.
  • But: I cannot whistle, but I can hold a tune.
  • Or: Should a stay, or should I go?
  • Yet: He might seem slow, yet I believe that he is actually very intelligent.
  • So: There weren't enough chairs, so I had to sit on the floor.
Correlative conjunctions
Conjunction words that come in pairs. This post illustrates various types via example sentences.
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Semi-colon

Case 1:

If both independent clauses already contain commas, then a semi-colon can be used along with a coordinating conjunction to cause less confusion. Example:

  • Anne, Joe, and Sammy all sat on chairs; but Harry, a latecomer, had no joice but to sit on the floor.

Case 2:

Semi-colons can be used instead of a period between two sentences for contrast or if there is a strong relationship between them. Examples:

  • My father likes to travel; my mother prefers creative projects at home.

Colon

This can be used when the second independent clause explains the first independent clause with a formal tone. Example:

  • Working out is like playing an RPG: You have some goal and you are leveling up your character in different areas by building your strength on different muscles.

Dash

This can be used when the second independent clause explains the first independent clause with an informal tone. Example:

  • I'm sure my uncle actually likes that woman - he goes to her shop every day.