There are a few ways to build a sentence. Here are the ones you will learn, from one clause to many.
Simple: one independent clause
A simple sentence is one independent clause: a single subject and predicate that stand on their own. It is the building block for everything else.
On the line
Thedogbarked.
One independent clause. That is a simple sentence.
Now you try
A single subject and predicate, one complete thought.
Compound: two independent clauses, joined as equals
A compound sentence joins two independent clauses with a comma and a coordinating conjunction: one of the FANBOYS (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so). Connie the Conjunction joins them as equals; each half could still stand alone.
On the line
Therainfell,andthegamestopped.
Two independent clauses, joined by a comma + and. Compound.
Now you try
for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so. Each side must still stand alone.
Complex: an independent clause plus a dependent one
A complex sentence joins an independent clause with a dependent clause, using a subordinating conjunction like because, when, or after. Connie the Conjunction joins them, but not as equals: the dependent clause cannot stand alone; it leans on the main clause.
On the line
Becausetherainfell,thegamestopped.
Because makes its clause dependent; the main clause finishes the thought. Complex.
Now you try
because, although, when, while, since. The added clause cannot stand alone.
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