Module 3
Correspondence Mechanics

Click on the links below to go to that section of the module.

Sentence Patterns and Punctuation

English sentences follow standard patterns of punctuation depending on their structure. The first section of this module focuses on four of the most common patterns for complex and compound sentences. These patterns will be described in the next pages:

  • Compound sentence with coordinating conjunction
  • Complex sentence with introductory clause
  • Compound sentence without coordinating conjunction
  • Compound sentence with transitional word

Are you familiar with these common patterns? Remind yourself of the patterns by punctuating each of the following sentences.

To begin, either retype the sentence or copy it into the answer box. To copy the sentence, highlight the sentence and press <Ctrl> C, then click in the answer box and press <Ctrl> V. Next, add the correct punctuation. Finally, click “Show answer” to see if you answered correctly.

Sentence 1 I tried to finish the report formatting before the end of the day but there were too many complex tables.
Your answer:

I tried to finish the report formatting before the end of the day, but there were too many complex tables.

Pattern: compound sentence with coordinating conjunction
Sentence 2 When she arrived at the office the meeting had already begun.
Your answer:

When she arrived at the office, the meeting had already begun.

Pattern: complex sentence with introductory clause
Sentence 3 I thought it would be finished on time however the work took longer than expected.
Your answer:

I thought it would be finished on time; however, the work took longer than expected.

Pattern: compound sentence with transitional word
Sentence 4 When the fire alarm rang everyone went outside.
Your answer:

When the fire alarm rang, everyone went outside.

Pattern: complex sentence with introductory clause
Sentence 5 He said it was finished therefore I assumed it was.
Your answer:

He said it was finished; therefore, I assumed it was.

Pattern: compound sentence with transitional word
Sentence 6 I know she planned to attend she made her reservations last week.
Your answer:

I know she planned to attend; she made her reservations last week.

Pattern: compound sentence without coordinating conjunction
Sentence 7 The project was very time-consuming nonetheless the manager was very happy with the outcome.
Your answer:

The project was very time-consuming; nonetheless, the manager was very happy with the outcome.

Pattern: compound sentence with transitional word
Sentence 8 The program assistant worked long hours on the mission but it was the only way to accomplish the objectives.
Your answer:

The program assistant worked long hours on the mission, but it was the only way to accomplish the objectives.

Pattern: compound sentence with coordinating conjunction