Sentence Structure

Tips from Proofreading: Plain and Simple by Debra Hart May, with my own commentary:

• "Compound sentences...contain two independent clauses, which could in fact be two separate sentences."
• There are three different ways that you could use punctuation in compound sentences. The first is to connect the two clauses with a comma and a coordinate conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so). For example: I can write about flowers, but I cannot write about constellations. A second method is to connect the two clauses, using a semicolon. Example: I can write about flowers; I cannot write about constellations. A third option is to use a transitional phrase or word, called a conjuctive adverb, after a semicolon and before a comma. Some common conjuctive adverbs are consequently, however, therefore, furthermore, then, thus, nevertheless, moreoever, indeed, in fact, of course, in addition, and in brief. For example: I can write about flowers; however, I cannot write about constellations. By learning these three rules, you can vary your writing and make an impressive-looking document.
• "Complex sentences...contain more than one idea, or clause. But in a complex sentence, one of the two ideas can't stand alone. The addition of one word, a 'subordinating conjunction,' makes one clause 'dependent' on the other to complete the thought."
• Subordinating conjunctions are the words although, after, because, before, as, if, since, until, when, whereas, while, who, which, and that. In order to punctuate a complex sentence correctly, you have to be aware of two different approaches. The first type starts with a subordinating conjunction, followed by the dependent clause, then a comma, then the independent clause. For example: Although I can write about flowers, I cannot write about constellations. A second method starts with the independent clause and does not use a comma between clauses. For example: I cannot write about constellations although I can write about flowers. With these two ideas under your belt, you can write effectively and smoothly.