Every time we join two simple sentences into a compound sentence, we use a coordinating conjunction. There are six coordinating conjunctions in the English language: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so
If we use the first letter of each conjunction, we spell the word FANBOYS. It’s an easy way to remember the words.
Always use a comma when joining two sentences with one of the FANBOYS.
Tell yourself: “comma, FANBOYS”
Here are sentence examples using a comma and one of the FANBOYS:
Take your umbrella, for it looks like rain.
Today is Tuesday, and we have a test.
I do not eat cabbage, nor do I eat squash.
John rode his bike to school, but Mary walked.
You can walk, or you can take the bus.
It is nearly bedtime, yet the sky is still light.
I lost my keys, so I can’t get into the house.
Use a comma with one of the FANBOYS when joining two simple sentences into a compound sentence.
▶It’s your turn. Use a comma and one of the FANBOYS to join these two simple sentences into a compound sentence. The car won’t start. We must walk to school. Did you figure it out? Good for you!