Final answer:
When a compound sentence begins with an incomplete clause, it may create anticipation but risks being seen as a grammatical error. A compound sentence must connect two or more main clauses with coordinating conjunctions. Proper use of subordinate clauses and punctuation is essential for clarity and coherence in writing.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a writer begins a compound sentence with an incomplete clause, the effect created can vary. An incomplete clause, known as a subordinate or dependent clause, does not express a complete thought and cannot stand alone as a sentence. By starting with such a clause, a writer might aim to create a sense of anticipation or tension, as the reader seeks the main clause to complete the idea. However, this strategy can also lead to confusion if not used carefully, as it risks being seen as a grammatical error rather than a stylistic choice.
Compound sentences typically contain two or more main clauses that are linked by coordinating conjunctions such as 'for', 'and', 'nor', 'but', 'or', 'yet', or 'so', which can be remembered with the mnemonic FANBOYS. An example of a compound sentence is: This peach is way beyond ripe, and I refuse to pay for it. Each clause could stand alone as a sentence, providing clear, complete thoughts.
It is important to use subordinate clauses effectively to enhance the quality of writing without causing unintentional sentence fragments or crafting sentences that are hard to read due to errors such as comma splices or run-on sentences. Utilizing a compound-complex sentence structure is a way to express multiple ideas coherently within a single sentence while maintaining correct punctuation and grammar.