Question

What are the two ways you can combine two independent clauses to form one sentence?

1) Using a coordinating conjunction
2) Using a subordinating conjunction
3) Using a semicolon
4) Using a colon

Answer 1

To combine two independent clauses into one sentence, you can use a coordinating conjunction with a comma, or a semicolon, especially with a conjunctive adverb.

Step-by-step explanation:

There are two primary methods you can use to combine two independent clauses to form a compound sentence:

• Using a coordinating conjunction with a comma, such as for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so, which can be remembered with the acronym FANBOYS.
• Using a semicolon to directly connect the independent clauses, especially when the two clauses are closely related or when a semicolon is used with a conjunctive adverb (like however, therefore, etc.) with a following comma.

For example, 'I finally found my keys, and I got to work just in time.' demonstrates the use of a coordinating conjunction. Alternatively, 'It rained heavily during the afternoon; however, we still managed to have a picnic.' illustrates the use of a semicolon with a conjunctive adverb.

A colon may also be used to connect two independent clauses when the second clause serves to emphasize or explain the first, although it is not one of the methods typically taught for combining independent clauses into one sentence.