A relative clause that refers to or modifies entire clauses in this manner is called a sentential clause . The ability to recognize a clause and to know when a clause is capable of acting as an independent unit is essential to correct writing and is especially helpful in avoiding sentence fragments and run-on sentences. . Needless to say, it is important to learn how to combine independent clauses into larger units of thought. In the following sentence, for example, Bob didn't mean to do it, but he did it anyway. It would also be helpful at this time to review the section on Punctuation Between Two Independent Clauses .
Clauses thus connected are usually nicely balanced in length and import.
Ramonita thought about joining the church choir , but she never talked to her friends about it. Again, see the section on Avoiding Primer Language . Although Ramonita often thought about joining the choir, she never talked to her friends about it. Ramonita never talked to her friends about joining the choir, because she was afraid they would make fun of her. Yasmin is Ramonita's sister.