Use coordinating conjunctions

Key Notes :

1. What are Coordinating Conjunctions?

  • Definition: Coordinating conjunctions are words that connect two equal parts of a sentence, such as two independent clauses or words.
  • Examples: The most common coordinating conjunctions can be remembered using the acronym FANBOYS:
  • For
  • And
  • Nor
  • But
  • Or
  • Yet
  • So

2. Connecting Ideas

  • Explanation: Coordinating conjunctions are used to link ideas that are of equal importance or closely related.
  • Example: “I like apples, and I like oranges.”
    Here, “and” connects two independent clauses of equal importance.

3. **Using *FANBOYS* Words**

  • For: Indicates reason or cause.
    Example: “I brought an umbrella, for it might rain.”
  • And: Adds or connects ideas.
    Example: “We went to the park, and we had a picnic.”
  • Nor: Adds a negative idea to another negative idea.
    Example: “He didn’t call, nor did he send a message.”
  • But: Shows contrast between ideas.
    Example: “I wanted to go, but I was too tired.”
  • Or: Presents a choice between two options.
    Example: “Do you want pizza, or do you prefer pasta?”
  • Yet: Indicates a contrasting idea that comes unexpectedly.
    Example: “It was late, yet he kept working.”
  • So: Shows the result of something.
    Example: “It was raining, so we stayed indoors.”

4. Punctuation Rule

  • Explanation: When coordinating conjunctions are used to join two independent clauses, a comma is placed before the conjunction.
  • Example: “She was tired, but she finished her homework.”

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