Dependent and Independent Clauses Exercises: 20-Question Quiz
Quick, free clauses practice quiz with answers. Instant results.
Editorial: Review CompletedUpdated Aug 28, 2025
This 20-question quiz helps you spot independent and dependent clauses and use them clearly in sentences. Get instant feedback and brief explanations, then keep practicing with a dependent and independent clauses quiz and a compound-complex sentence quiz, or review joining words in a coordinating conjunctions quiz.
Study Outcomes
- Identify independent and dependent clauses in given sentences.
- Analyze sentence structures to distinguish between clause types.
- Apply rules for combining clauses to form coherent sentences.
- Evaluate examples for proper usage of independent and dependent clauses.
- Create original sentences that accurately incorporate both clause types.
Independent and Dependent Clauses Cheat Sheet
- Understand Independent Clauses - Independent clauses are your writing superheroes - they stand alone and deliver complete ideas, like "She enjoys reading." They always have a subject and a verb working together, so your sentences shine bright! Independent & Dependent Clauses Drill
- Recognize Dependent Clauses - Dependent clauses are the sidekicks - they need backup to form full sentences and often start with "because," "although," or "if." Alone they feel incomplete, but when paired correctly they add juicy detail! Dependent Clauses Guide
- Identify Subordinating Conjunctions - Subordinating conjunctions act like connectors, joining dependent clauses to independent ones and showing cause, time, or contrast. Words like "although," "since," and "while" spice up your sentences! Subordinating Conjunctions List
- Combine Clauses to Form Complex Sentences - Complex sentences blend independent and dependent clauses to boost your writing style. Try "Because she enjoys reading, she visits the library often" and watch your prose come alive! Build Complex Sentences
- Use Commas Correctly in Complex Sentences - When a dependent clause comes first, separate it with a comma ("Although it was raining, we went for a walk"). If the independent clause leads, skip the comma. Punctuation precision keeps your writing crisp! Comma Usage Rules
- Avoid Sentence Fragments - Starting with "Because I forgot the exam was today" is like telling a joke without a punchline - it leaves readers hanging. Always pair dependent clauses with an independent partner to complete the thought! Avoid Sentence Fragments
- Practice Identifying Clauses - Turn confusion into clarity by spotting independent and dependent clauses until it's second nature. Flashcards, apps, or quick drills can make you a clause-detecting ninja! Clause ID Practice
- Understand the Role of Clauses in Sentence Structure - Independent clauses stand tall alone, while dependent clauses sneak in extra flavor. Mixing them wisely gives your writing variety and keeps readers hooked! Clauses in Writing
- Use Reference Sheets for Quick Review - Keep a cheat sheet handy to recall definitions and examples of each clause type in a flash. When in doubt, a glance at your trusty sheet can save your study session! Clauses Reference Sheet
- Engage in Interactive Quizzes - Testing yourself with quizzes that challenge clause identification and combination turns learning into a fun game. Interactive practice cements your skills and builds confidence! Interactive Clause Quizzes