ABSTRACT
The independent clause is the starting point for thinking about the differences among simple, compound, and complex sentences because all three sentence types contain at least one independent clause—the differences lie in what else the sentences contain. Simple sentences are basic building blocks of writing; there are times when writers want to create longer sentences that string together multiple ideas and include additional details, but there are also instances when writers may want to express an idea in a simple sentence. Like coordinating conjunctions, semicolons also link independent clauses in compound sentences. Simple, compound, and complex sentences are important because of the variety they can add to writing. Each sentence type is a tool that writers can use to shape their work in specific ways. Dominguez also included complex sentences in Stella Diaz Has Something to Say, using the information in a dependent clause to provide contextual details related to an independent clause.
