Compound parts (Compound Subjects and Verbs) split the line into a fork: parallel lines, one for each part, joined by a dashed line with the conjunction beside it. This builds on objects and phrases.
A compound sentence has two independent clauses, so it gets two baselines, one above the other. A dashed line, shaped like a step, joins the two verbs, with the conjunction on it.
Key idea
Compound parts of one clause: a fork on one baseline. Two independent clauses: two baselines. The conjunction never sits on the baseline; it goes beside the dashed line.
Why it works
The fork shows that the parts share a job (two subjects for one verb, two verbs for one subject). Two baselines show two complete clauses. The difference is the difference between a simple sentence with compound parts and a compound sentence.
Worked example: Fork or two baselines?
“Leo sang and danced” and “Leo sang, and Mia danced.”
- First: one subject, two verbs: a fork for the verbs on one baseline.
- Second: two subjects, each with its own verb: two baselines joined by and.
Answer: fork, then two baselines
Common mistake
Putting the conjunction on the baseline, or drawing one baseline for a compound sentence. A compound sentence has two subjects with two verbs; give each clause its own baseline.