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LL.1 Find the coordinating conjunctions

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What are coordinating conjunctions?

Coordinating conjunctions are words that join two equal parts of a sentence, such as words, phrases, or independent clauses. They help connect ideas smoothly.

Examples:
  • We wanted to play outside, but it started to rain.
  • She likes apples and oranges.
  • I will read a book or watch a movie.
Note

Think of coordinating conjunctions as “glue words” that hold two ideas of equal importance together.

The seven coordinating conjunctions

There are seven main coordinating conjunctions. You can remember them with the acronym FANBOYS.

FANBOYS:
  • For
  • And
  • Nor
  • But
  • Or
  • Yet
  • So
  • F → I stayed inside, for it was very cold. (reason)
  • A → We had sandwiches and juice. (addition)
  • N → She doesn’t eat meat, nor does she drink milk. (negative addition)
  • B → She wanted to play, but she had homework. (contrast)
  • O → Do you want tea or coffee? (choice)
  • Y → It was raining, yet they went for a walk. (unexpected contrast)
  • S → It was late, so we went home. (result)
Note

Memorizing FANBOYS will help you quickly identify coordinating conjunctions when reading or writing.

How do coordinating conjunctions work?

A coordinating conjunction joins two equal parts. These can be single words, groups of words, or complete sentences that can stand alone.

Examples:
  • Words: “We need pencils and paper.”
  • Phrases: “She ran down the street and into the park.”
  • Clauses: “I wanted to go swimming, but the pool was closed.”
Note

Coordinating conjunctions always connect parts that are equal in importance.

Using commas with coordinating conjunctions

When a coordinating conjunction joins two independent clauses, a comma is usually placed before the conjunction.

Examples:
  • “I studied for the test, and I felt ready.”
  • “She wanted to go outside, but it was too cold.”
  • “We could go to the park, or we could stay home.”
Note

Do not place a comma when the conjunction is only joining words or short phrases.

Practice identifying coordinating conjunctions

To get better at recognizing coordinating conjunctions, look for FANBOYS in sentences and decide what parts they are connecting.

Examples:
  • “I wanted pizza, yet I chose a salad.”
  • “He can ride his bike or walk to school.”
  • “She likes to read and write stories.”
Note

As you read, underline or highlight the coordinating conjunctions. This will help you notice how they connect ideas.

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