Sentence Construction Practice
Learn how simple, compound and complex sentences work, then build your own academic sentences step by step across seven levels and get instant feedback.
Quick lesson: the three sentence types
1. Simple sentence
One independent clause — a single subject and verb that expresses a complete idea. It can still be long, because phrases do not create new clauses.
Rising fuel prices affect low-income households the most.
2. Compound sentence
Two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction (and, but, or, nor, for, so, yet) or by a semicolon. Both halves could stand alone.
Public transport is affordable, but the network rarely reaches rural areas.
3. Complex sentence
One independent clause plus at least one dependent clause introduced by words such as because, although, while, if, when, since, which, who or that.
Although the reform was costly, it improved access to healthcare in remote regions.
Writing academic sentences with variety
- Mix the three types: never write three long complex sentences in a row.
- Use a short simple sentence to make a key point land.
- Prefer precise nouns and verbs over vague ones (rise → surge, thing → factor).
- Change how you begin: subject, adverb, or dependent clause first.
- Keep sentences under about 33 words and punctuate clauses correctly.
- Use a word once and in the right context — repetition weakens lexical range.
Level 1: Identify the sentence type
Read each sentence and choose whether it is simple, compound or complex.
1. Urban populations continue to grow at a remarkable pace.
2. Public transport is cheap, but many commuters still prefer private cars.
3. Although the policy was expensive, it reduced traffic congestion sharply.
4. Governments should subsidise renewable energy and tax heavy polluters.
5. Students who study abroad often develop greater independence.
6. The scheme was launched last year; participation has since doubled.
7. Because childcare is unaffordable, many parents leave the workforce.
8. Online learning saves time, so universities are expanding their digital courses.
9. Rising sea levels threaten coastal communities across the region.
10. When wages stagnate, households borrow more, and debt levels rise.