NYSTCE English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Practice Test

Which of the following describes a compound sentence?

1. A sentence with one independent clause

2. A sentence containing at least one dependent clause

3. A sentence made up of two or more independent clauses

4. A sentence with no clauses

The correct answer is: A sentence made up of two or more independent clauses

A compound sentence is characterized by the combination of two or more independent clauses. Independent clauses are complete thoughts that can stand alone as sentences. When these clauses are connected, typically using coordinating conjunctions such as "and," "but," or "or," they form a compound sentence that conveys multiple related ideas. By contrast, a sentence with one independent clause is simply a simple sentence, while one containing at least one dependent clause would be classified as a complex sentence. A sentence with no clauses wouldn’t fit into the category of a compound sentence, as it lacks the required structure of independent clauses. Thus, the definition of a compound sentence as encompassing two or more independent clauses stands out as the most accurate description.