Sentence Structure Quiz: Simple, Compound, and Complex
This sentence structure quiz helps you spot simple, compound, and complex sentences with clear explanations. Get instant feedback, learn why an answer fits, and build confidence for class or tests. For more targeted practice, try our compound and complex sentences quiz and the broader types of sentences quiz, or expand variety with a sentence pattern quiz.
Study Outcomes
- Identify Simple, Compound & Complex Sentences -
Learn to recognize the defining features of simple, compound, and complex sentences by analyzing their subjects, predicates, and connectors.
- Distinguish Sentence Patterns -
Differentiate between sentence structures by spotting coordinating and subordinating conjunctions in various examples.
- Apply Sentence Structure Rules -
Use your knowledge to classify sentences correctly and explain why each example fits a particular pattern.
- Correct Misused Sentences -
Practice revising run-ons and fragments to form clear simple, compound, or complex sentences with proper punctuation.
- Enhance Writing Clarity -
Strengthen your writing by choosing the most effective sentence structure for flow, variety, and emphasis.
Cheat Sheet
- Simple Sentence Basics -
A simple sentence consists of a single independent clause with a subject and predicate. It's the foundation of clear writing and always stands alone as a complete thought, per Cambridge University guidelines. Example: "The sun rises."
- Compound Sentences & FANBOYS -
Compound sentences join two independent clauses using coordinating conjunctions (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) - remembered by FANBOYS. You can link them with a comma before the conjunction or a semicolon, as noted by Purdue OWL. Example: "I finished my homework, so I watched a movie."
- Complex Sentences & A WHITE BUS -
Complex sentences combine one independent clause with at least one dependent clause using subordinating conjunctions such as although, because, or while. Use the mnemonic A WHITE BUS (after, while, if, though, etc.) from the University of Michigan to recall key subordinators. Example: "After the rain stopped, we went for a walk."
- Identifying Independent vs. Dependent Clauses -
An independent clause has both a subject and a verb and can stand alone, whereas a dependent clause has a subject and verb but relies on an independent clause to complete its meaning. Spotting clause boundaries helps prevent fragments and run-ons, according to the Modern Language Association. Try underlining each subject-verb combo when analyzing sentence structure.
- Varying Sentence Structure for Impact -
Mixing simple, compound, and complex sentences boosts readability and keeps readers engaged, a principle backed by Harvard University writing guides. Alternate structures to emphasize key ideas or create rhythm, and always review punctuation rules for clarity. Example tip: follow a complex sentence with a short simple one to drive a point home.