1. Two or More Independent Clauses
A compound sentence consists of two or more independent clauses. Each clause expresses a complete thought and can stand alone as a separate sentence.
2. Clauses Joined by Coordinating Conjunctions, Semicolons, or Transition Words
Independent clauses in a compound sentence are joined using a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so), a semicolon, or a transition word (however, therefore, consequently).
Examples
The weather was perfect, but we decided to stay indoors.
She studied all night; she still didn’t feel prepared for the exam.
He wanted to go hiking; however, it started raining.
3. Equal Importance of Clauses
Both independent clauses in a compound sentence have equal importance. They are often related, but neither one depends on the other.