Independent (Main) Clauses
What Is It?
An independent (main) clause contains a subject and a finite verb and forms a complete thought: S + V (+ O) → “The service restarted.”
Why Use Independent Clauses?
- Clarity — delivers self-contained information.
- Pace — breaks long chains into digestible sentences.
- Authority — asserts facts confidently.
When to Choose Independent Clauses
Executive summaries, status updates, UI messages (“Build succeeded.”).
Forming Independent-Clause Sentences
| Tense | Formula | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Simple Present | S + V(s/es) | “Tests pass.” |
| Simple Past | S + V-ed | “Tests passed.” |
| Future Simple | S + will + V | “Tests will pass tomorrow.” |
| Present Perfect | S + has/have + V-pp | “Tests have passed.” |
Tips for Writing with Independent Clauses
- Lead with the main action.
- Chain with coordinating conjunctions (and, but) sparingly.
- Trim extra modifiers; keep focus.
- Use commas correctly when linking two mains with and/but.
Exceptions & Nuances
Imperatives lack an explicit subject but act like independents: “Deploy now.” Titles and headlines are verbless independents by convention.