Simple, Compound and Complex Sentences

Start with sentence types

The flashcards titled Simple, Compound and Complex Sentences introduce the sentence types alongside subjects, verbs and complete ideas. They are a useful starting point if you want a short overview before looking more closely at clauses. A flowchart on simple, compound and complex sentences also sets out how the types differ.

For a closer look at simple sentences, the listed flowchart on sentence drawings shows patterns built around a subject and verb, with examples that add an object or other description. Use it alongside the flashcards to notice the parts within each example.

Compare compound and complex sentences

Sentences: Compound shows main clauses joined by words such as “and,” “but” and “so.” The notes titled Compound sentences also show conjunction choices and an example of clauses joined with “so.” Read the map first, then use the notes to look at how a conjunction connects the ideas.

Sentences: Complex shows a main clause with a subordinate clause. The Complex sentences mind map also looks at conjunctions and differences between sentence types. Comparing the maps can help you see what changes between a compound and a complex sentence.

Use maps and quizzes together

After studying the maps, try the quiz on choosing conjunctions for compound sentences. Return to the compound sentence notes when you want to check how a joining word works in an example. The page also lists Classifying Sentences and Sentences Practice Quiz for further practice.

Place the topic in context

This topic is part of the wider unit in English language. Its maps, notes and flashcards give you examples of sentence structure and clauses to study alongside the quizzes. Choose a resource that matches what you want to practice and explore it at your own pace.