Combining Independent Clauses with

Conjunction
A conjunction is used to connect two
independent clauses. Usually a comma
immediately precedes the conjunction.
Main clauses can be connected with main
clause markers called coordinating
conjunctions. These include for, and, nor, but,
or, yet and so (FANBOYS). A comma is usually
placed before these conjunctions.

Karina has a new coat, and Caroline has new boots.

main clause CM main clause
 Conjunctions Meaning
For because
And addition
Nor and not, not either
But contrast
Or choice
Yet contrast
So as a result, therefore
Punctuate the following sentences by adding
commas or periods when necessary.
1. Bambang is in a serious legal trouble for
he did not have car insurance at the time
of accident.
2. The team of researchers has not finished
compiling the statistics yet their work will
not be made public until later.
3. The earthquake was devastating tall
buildings crumbled and fell to the earth.
4. I always enjoyed mathematics in high school so
I decided to major in it in college.
5. Ayu made many promises but she did not have
intention of keeping them.
6. Customers must not delay their payment nor
they exceed to use credit limit.
7. The employees may go to Puncak for gathering
or they may celebrate a party in a restaurant.
Main clauses can also be connected with
clause markers such as however,
nevertheless, in addition, as a result, on
the other hand, furthermore, and
moreover.
When these clause markers are used on
EPT, they are preceded by semicolon (;).
(They can also be preceded by a period
(.). However, on EPT, this is never the
case. Only semicolons are used).
Caroline has new boots; in addition, she has new gloves.
main clause CM main clause
 EPT tests your understanding of the
clause markers used in main clauses and
subordinate clauses by:
 leaving out parts of compound clause
markers;
 adding unnecessary parts to clause
markers;
 using the incorrect forms of relative
pronouns.
Practice with main clause markers

Choose the clause markers that correctly

separate the main clauses.
1) Lawrence likes pumpkin pie; (however,/but) I prefer mince pie.
(A) (B)

2) They may want to go to New York this weekend;

(on the other hand/on other hand), they may prefer to stay at home.
(A) (B)

3) We would like to give you this card, (in addition/and) we all want to
(A) (B)
congratulate you on your great success.
4) During the storm, the lights went out; (moreover,/and) the
telephone lines were damaged. (A) (B)

5) Maria did not receive her check; (as result/as a result), she does
not have money for the weekend. (A) (B)