1. introducing writing

Compound-

Complex 

Sentences

A compound-complex sentences is a combination of two 

or more independent      clauses and one (or more) 

dependent clauses. Many combinations are possible, and 

their punctuation requires careful attention.

1. I wanted to travel after I graduated from college; however, I had to go to work immediately.

2. After I graduated from college, I wanted to travel, but I had to go to work immediately.

3. I wanted to travel after I graduated from college, but I had to go to work immediately because I had to support my family.

4. I couldn’t decide where I should work or what I should do, so I did nothing.



Punctuate the compound part of a compound-complex sentence like a compound sentence; that is, use a semicolon/comma combination 

(sentence 1), or put a comma before a coordinator joining two clauses (sentences 2, 3, and 4).



Punctuate the complex part like a complex sentence. With adverb clauses, put a comma after a dependent adverb clause (sentence 2) but 

not before them (sentence 3). With noun clauses, use no commas (sentence 4).