Things You'll Need:
- Two independent clauses (simple sentences)
- Commas
- Semi-colons
- Coordinating conjunctions
- Conjunctive adverbs
- Transitional expressions
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Step 1
Add a coordinating conjunction. A coordinating conjunction show how and why ideas are connected. Some examples include and, but, for, or, so and yet.
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Step 2
Place a comma before the coordinating conjunction when making a compound sentence. Example: Walking is good exercise, but you need to stretch your muscles. Note that each sentence before and after the comma and the coordinating conjunction are complete sentences (independent clauses).
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Step 3
Use a semi-colon to form a compound sentence. When ideas are closely linked you should use a semi-colon. Here is an example: “My dad is addicted to junk food; he eats it every day.”
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Step 4
Make a compound sentence by using a conjunctive adverb. Some examples of conjunctive adverbs are: also, besides, finally, later, then, however and instead. An example of a compound sentence made by adding a conjunctive adverb is “I have a lot to do today; also I have a lot on my mind.” Note that the semi-colon is placed before the conjunctive adverb and that the sentences on each side of the conjunctive adverb are independent clauses.
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Step 5
Use a transitional expression to form a compound sentence. Some examples of transitional expressions are: after all, for example, in other words and as a result. As with conjunctive adverbs, place a semi-colon before the transitional expression.
