Before we build complex sentences, we need to understand the building block. A clause is not just a random group of words. It has a specific DNA.
"The cat sleeps."
✨ This is a clause! It has a doer and an action.
Not all clauses are created equal. Some are strong leaders, while others need support. Understanding this difference is the key to fixing run-on sentences and fragments.
The "Lone Wolf"
Can stand alone as a complete sentence. It expresses a complete thought. It doesn't need anyone else to make sense.
"I love pizza." 🍕
The "Needy Toddler"
Contains a subject and a verb but cannot stand alone. It starts with a "Subordinating Conjunction" that makes it feel unfinished.
"...because I love pizza" 🍕❓
This chart visualizes the "Grammatical Independence" of the two main types. Note how Dependent clauses (in orange) have zero capacity to function as a sentence on their own.
Dependent clauses aren't useless! They just need a job. They act like parts of speech (Adjectives, Adverbs, or Nouns) but are made of entire clauses. Explore them below.
Acts like an adjective: it describes or modifies a Noun or Pronoun.
"The student who studies hard will succeed."
The clause describes "The student".
Just like LEGO blocks, we can snap clauses together to build different structures. The complexity of your writing depends on how you mix these blocks.
Just one independent clause.
"The dog barked."
Two independent clauses joined by a FANBOYS coordinator.
"The dog barked, and I woke up."
One independent + one dependent clause.
"When the dog barked, I woke up."
Two independent + at least one dependent.
"Because the dog barked, I woke up, and I was angry."