How do you identify an independent clause?

Independent Clause Defined

They have a subject – they tell the reader what the sentence is about.
They have an action or predicate – they tell the reader what the subject is doing.
They express a complete thought – something happened or was said.

What are two independent clauses?

The word compound means “to put together, to form a whole.” Sometimes two independent clauses (two simple sentences) can be put together to form another kind of sentence: the compound sentence. There are three patterns one may use to link simple sentences into a compound sentence.

How do you use two independent clauses in a sentence?

To combine two independent clauses (complete sentences), use a semicolon or a comma and conjunction. To attach a dependent clause, use a comma if it comes before the independent clause; use no comma if it comes after the independent clause, unless it is a “contrast word” (although, though, even though, whereas).

How many independent clauses can you have in a sentence?

To separate two (or three) independent clauses in a compound sentence. (Compound sentences are sentences that have two (or three) independent clauses which are joined by one of the following conjunctions: for, nor, yet, so, and, but, or.

Do you use a comma to separate a dependent and independent clause?

~ Use a comma to separate the dependent clause from the independent when it follows the independent one if the dependent clause is nonessential. Keep in mind, however, that many dependent clauses will be essential and will not require a comma.

What are the 8 rules for commas?

Commas (Eight Basic Uses)

Use a comma to separate independent clauses.
Use a comma after an introductory clause or phrase.
Use a comma between all items in a series.
Use commas to set off nonrestrictive clauses.
Use a comma to set off appositives.
Use a comma to indicate direct address.
Use commas to set off direct quotations.

How do you use a comma in an independent clause?

Comma Use

Use commas to separate independent clauses when they are joined by any of these seven coordinating conjunctions: and, but, for, or, nor, so, yet.
Use commas after introductory a) clauses, b) phrases, or c) words that come before the main clause.

What is a dependent and independent clause?

An independent clause contains a subject, a verb, and a complete thought. A dependent clause contains a subject and a verb, but no complete thought.

What are some examples of independent and dependent clauses?

If a dependent marker word is used, the clause cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. For example: “If she leaves” = not a complete sentence.
If an independent marker word is used, the clause can stand alone as a complete sentence. For example: “Therefore, she leaves” = a complete sentence.

What are the three types of compound sentences?

Three methods of forming compound sentences

with a coordinating conjunction (one of the fanboys);
with a semicolon; or.
with a semicolon and a transitional expression.

What is dependent and independent clause with examples?

About Transcript. An independent clause is a sentence that has a subject and a verb and requires no extra information to understand. Dependent clauses, which start with subordinating conjunctions such as “while,” “that,” or “unless,” give background information but cannot stand on their own as sentences.