Rules of Transformation of Sentences – Simple, Complex and Compound

Transforming sentences is a fundamental aspect of grammar that allows writers to express ideas in different ways. By understanding the rules of transformation, writers can enhance sentence variety and create a more engaging and effective piece of writing. Here are the rules for transforming sentences from simple to complex and compound forms:

Simple to Complex Sentence Transformation

a. Addition of Subordinate Clauses: To transform a simple sentence into a complex one, add a subordinate clause. Use conjunctions like “although,” “because,” “while,” “since,” “if,” “when,” etc., to introduce the subordinate clause.

Example:

Simple: She likes to read books.

Complex: Although she likes to read books, she seldom finds the time.

b. Conversion to Infinitive Phrase: Replace the subject or object of the simple sentence with an infinitive phrase to create a complex sentence.

Example:

Simple: He goes to the gym.

Complex: To stay fit, he goes to the gym.

c. Transformation with Participle Phrase: Replace the main subject or object with a participle phrase.

Example:

Simple: The sun sets.

Complex: The sun, setting in the west, creates a beautiful view.

Simple to Compound Sentence Transformation

a. Using Coordinating Conjunctions: Combine two simple sentences into a compound sentence by using coordinating conjunctions like “and,” “but,” “or,” “nor,” “for,” “so,” “yet.”

Example:

Simple 1: She loves dancing.

Simple 2: She also enjoys singing.

Compound: She loves dancing and she also enjoys singing.

b. Using Semicolons: Use a semicolon to join two closely related independent clauses.

Example:

Simple 1: He works hard.

Simple 2: He deserves the promotion.

Compound: He works hard; he deserves the promotion.

c. Joining with Conjunctive Adverbs: Connect two simple sentences with a conjunctive adverb (e.g., “however,” “therefore,” “moreover,” “consequently”) and a semicolon or a comma.

Example:

Simple 1: The weather was terrible.

Simple 2: They decided to stay indoors.

Compound: The weather was terrible; therefore, they decided to stay indoors.

Complex to Simple Sentence Transformation

a. Removing Subordinate Clauses: Simplify a complex sentence by removing the subordinate clause and retaining the main clause.

Example:

Complex: Although she studied hard, she failed the exam.

Simple: She failed the exam.

b. Converting Infinitive/Participle Phrases: Convert the infinitive or participle phrase back to a single verb or noun.

Example:

Complex: To reach the summit, they climbed for hours.

Simple: They climbed for hours.

Compound to Simple Sentence Transformation:

a. Separating into Individual Sentences: Break down the compound sentence into two or more simple sentences.

Example:

Compound: He painted the fence and she mowed the lawn.

Simple 1: He painted the fence.

Simple 2: She mowed the lawn.

Remember that the transformation of sentences requires careful consideration of context and meaning. Practicing these rules will improve your writing skills and allow you to express ideas in various sentence structures effectively.

Below is a table summarising the rules of transformation of sentences from simple to complex and compound and vice versa: