Sentences can be approached in different levels of detail. The following will go through some basics. If you want more detail, then go to the sections on clauses and the passive and active voice. If you want some examples of varied writing, then read some pieces from the article bank.
-First things first, sentences require the first word to have a capital letter. This should come one space after the last full stop. The full stop shows that the last sentence has finished and the capital letter signals that a new one has begun.
-They should not be too long. Limiting yourself to one conjunction. For example: and, so, but, because. Using just one of these in each sentence is a simple way to limit the number of words and make sentences more concise.
-You can vary sentence length to keep writing interesting. Short statements, particularly when used in combination with longer descriptive or explanatory ones, can help emphasise important points. They also help to make writing punchy since there are more frequent pauses. It is best to use them alongside longer sentences to avoid losing impact.
Rules of Thumb for Better Sentences
-Use pronouns to avoid repeating names excessively and boring readers.
-Vary sentence length and keep to a maximum of one conjunction to begin with.
-Compound sentences use conjunctions to link together related or contrasting ideas. Linking together using “because” provides readers a reason for something you have stated which can help convince them. It is especially useful when aiming to influence readers, for instance in emails requesting them to take an action. Using “but” can allow writing to explore contrasting arguments and give the impression of a balanced view.
-Complex sentences link together different clauses to add more details and explanations. Commas can be used to form complex sentences. These are often combined with conjunctions (and, or, but, because, etc.) which provides a combination of compound and complex writing. For more on clauses, read the article on how to use them correctly.