Quick Guide: Complex to Simple Sentence Transformation.

Complex to Simple Sentence Transformation is a key skill in learning sentence structures. A complex sentence contains at least one dependent clause, which can sometimes make communication less direct. By simplifying such sentences, we enhance clarity and make our ideas more accessible. This transformation process involves reducing clauses into phrases or single words without changing the meaning.

In this article, we will explore how to transform complex sentences into simpler forms by reducing noun, adjective, and adverb clauses into concise phrases. We will also highlight the benefits of this transformation, making the content useful for students, professionals, and general readers alike.

Key Definitions:

Before diving into examples, let’s clarify the essential terms:

• Complex Sentence: It may be defined as a complex sentence that includes an independent clause along with one or more dependent clauses.
• Simple Sentence: It may be defined as a simple sentence made up of a single independent clause.
• Clause: It may be defined as a clause that refers to a group of words that contains both a subject and a predicate, forming part of or a whole sentence.
• Phrase: It may be defined as a phrase is a group of words that functions as a single part of speech but does not contain both a subject and a predicate.

Conversion of Complex Sentences into Simple Sentences:

Reducing a Noun Clause into a Phrase

One way to simplify a complex sentence is by converting the noun clause into a noun phrase.

Example:

• Complex: I am sure that she will pass the exam.
• Simple: I am sure of her passing the exam.

Explanation: The noun clause “that she will pass the exam” is reduced to the noun phrase “her passing the exam.”

Additional Examples:

• Complex: She explained why she missed the meeting.
• Simple: She explained the reason for missing the meeting.
• Complex: I could not believe what he said.
• Simple: I could not believe his words.

By Reducing an Adjective Clause into a Phrase:

Adjective clauses often describe nouns. Reducing them into phrases simplifies the sentence without losing meaning.

Example:

• Complex: The boy who is playing the guitar is my cousin.
• Simple: The boy playing the guitar is my cousin.

Explanation: The adjective clause “who is playing the guitar” becomes the participial phrase “playing the guitar.”

Additional Examples:

• Complex: The house which was built last year is already sold.
• Simple: The house built last year is already sold.
• Complex: The car that is parked outside is hers.
• Simple: The car parked outside is hers.

By Reducing an Adverb Clause into a Phrase:

Adverb clauses provide additional information about the action, such as the reason, time, or manner of the verb. Reducing adverb clauses into phrases can significantly shorten and simplify the sentence without altering the meaning.

Example:

• Complex: As soon as he heard the news, he left the house.
• Simple: On hearing the news, he left the house.

Explanation: The adverb clause “As soon as he heard the news” is transformed into the prepositional phrase “On hearing the news.”

Additional Examples:

• Complex: Because she was tired, she went to bed early.
• Simple: Being tired, she went to bed early.
• Complex: Since it was raining heavily, they decided to stay indoors.
• Simple: Due to the heavy rain, they decided to stay indoors.

By Reducing a Relative Clause into a Phrase

Relative clauses (introduced by words like “who,” “which,” or “that”) can be shortened into phrases to create a simpler structure.

Example:

• Complex: The book that was written by the famous author is a bestseller.
• Simple: The book written by the famous author is a bestseller.

Explanation: The relative clause “that was written by the famous author” becomes the participial phrase “written by the famous author.”

Additional Examples:

• Complex: The people who live next door are friendly.
• Simple: The people living next door are friendly.
• Complex: The man who was injured in the accident is recovering.
• Simple: The man injured in the accident is recovering.

Simplifying Sentences by Removing Redundant Clauses

Often, a sentence can be simplified by eliminating unnecessary clauses, making it more direct and concise.

Example:

• Complex: He said that he was sorry for being late.
• Simple: He apologized for being late.

Explanation: The clause “that he was sorry for being late” is removed and replaced with the concise phrase “apologized for being late.”

Additional Examples:

• Complex: She told me that she was going to the market.
• Simple: She told me about going to the market.
• Complex: It is certain that he will succeed.
• Simple: His success is certain.

By Using Infinitive Phrases

Another effective way to simplify a complex sentence is to reduce clauses to infinitive phrases (using “to” + verb).

Example:

• Complex: He was happy that he won the prize.
• Simple: He was happy to win the prize.

Explanation: The noun clause “that he won the prize” is reduced to the infinitive phrase “to win the prize.”

Additional Examples:

• Complex: She was excited that she could attend the event.
• Simple: She was excited to attend the event.
• Complex: He is eager that he will start his new job.
• Simple: He is eager to start his new job.

By Using Prepositional Phrases:

Prepositional phrases can also be used to replace clauses and simplify the sentence structure.

Example:

• Complex: After he finished his work, he went home.
• Simple: After finishing his work, he went home.

Explanation: The adverb clause “After he finished his work” is reduced to the prepositional phrase “After finishing his work.”

Additional Examples:

• Complex: Before they left, they checked the room.
• Simple: Before leaving, they checked the room.
• Complex: While she was speaking, the audience listened attentively.
• Simple: While speaking, the audience listened attentively.

Detailed Table for Simplification Techniques

Reduce the adverb clause to a phrase	Complex Sentence	Simple Sentence	Transformation Technique
Noun Clause	He knew that she was coming.	He knew of her coming.	Reduce noun clause into a noun phrase
Adjective Clause	The car that he bought was expensive.	The car he bought was expensive.	Reduce adjective clause to a phrase
Adverb Clause	She cried because she lost her wallet.	She cried due to losing her wallet.	Reduce adverb clause to a phrase
Infinitive Phrase	I am glad that I met you.	I am glad to meet you.	Use an infinitive phrase
Prepositional Phrase	After they had dinner, they left the restaurant.	After having dinner, they left the restaurant.	Use a prepositional phrase
Relative Clause	The person who called me is my friend.	The person calling me is my friend.	Reduce relative clause to a participle
Removing Redundant Clauses	It is clear that she will win the competition.	Her victory is clear.	Eliminate unnecessary clauses

By Using Participles:

Participles (verb forms that function as adjectives) can be used to simplify sentences by reducing clauses into shorter phrases.

Example:

• Complex: The man who was running fast won the race.
• Simple: The man running fast won the race.

Explanation: The clause “who was running fast” is simplified into the participial phrase “running fast.”

Additional Examples:

• Complex: The girl who is singing on stage is my sister.
• Simple: The girl singing on stage is my sister.
• Complex: The dog that is barking loudly belongs to my neighbor.
• Simple: The dog barking loudly belongs to my neighbor.

By Using Appositives:

Appositives are noun phrases that rename or explain a noun in the sentence. Using appositives is a great way to simplify sentences by removing redundant clauses.

Example:

• Complex: Albert Einstein, who was a famous physicist, developed the theory of relativity.
• Simple: Albert Einstein, a famous physicist, developed the theory of relativity.

Explanation: The relative clause “who was a famous physicist” is reduced to the appositive phrase “a famous physicist.”

Additional Examples:

• Complex: My friend, who is a skilled photographer, won the competition.
• Simple: My friend, a skilled photographer, won the competition.
• Complex: Sarah, who is my cousin, lives in New York.
• Simple: Sarah, my cousin, lives in New York.

By Using Absolute Phrases:

Absolute phrases consist of a noun and a participle that add more detail to the sentence. These phrases can simplify complex sentences by concisely providing additional information.

Example:

• Complex: The weather was perfect, so they decided to go for a walk.
• Simple: The weather being perfect, they decided to go for a walk.

Explanation: The clause “so they decided to go for a walk” is simplified into the absolute phrase “the weather being perfect.”

Additional Examples:

• Complex: His homework finished, he went out to play.
• Simple: Having finished his homework, he went out to play.
• Complex: The sun having set, they lit a fire.
• Simple: With the sunset, they lit a fire.

Additional Techniques:

Transformation Technique	Complex Sentence	Simple Sentence
Using Participles	The man who was running fast won the race.	The man running fast won the race.
Using Appositives	Albert Einstein, who was a famous physicist, developed…	Albert Einstein, a famous physicist, developed…
Using Absolute Phrases	The weather was perfect, so they decided to go for a walk.	The weather being perfect, they decided to go for a walk.

By Using Gerunds:

Gerunds (the “-ing” form of a verb used as a noun) can also be a powerful tool in simplifying sentences, especially when transforming clauses into more concise expressions.

Example:

• Complex: She was praised because she completed the project successfully.
• Simple: She was praised for completing the project successfully.

Explanation: The adverb clause “because she completed the project successfully” is reduced to the gerund phrase “for completing the project successfully.”

Additional Examples:

• Complex: He was fined because he violated the traffic rules.
• Simple: He was fined for violating the traffic rules.
• Complex: She was rewarded as she helped organize the event.
• Simple: She was rewarded for helping organize the event.

By Using Causative Verbs:

Causative verbs such as “make,” “have,” and “let” can be used to reduce clauses and simplify sentences.

Example:

• Complex: She had the mechanic fix her car because it was making noise.
• Simple: She had the mechanic fix her noisy car.

Explanation: The clause “because it was making noise” is simplified into the adjective “noisy” to make the sentence more concise.

Additional Examples:

• Complex: The teacher made the students stay after school because they were disruptive.
• Simple: The teacher made the disruptive students stay after school.
• Complex: He had the gardener trim the bushes because they were overgrown.
• Simple: He had the gardener trim the overgrown bushes.

In conclusion, Complex to Simple Sentence Transformation is a valuable skill that can improve clarity, precision, and readability. By reducing clauses into phrases or single words, you can convey the same message in a more direct and concise way. This is especially useful in both academic writing and everyday communication, where the goal is to make information easily digestible.

FAQ

How do you transform a complex sentence into a simple sentence?

You can transform a complex sentence into a simple one by reducing clauses into phrases or using noun, adjective, or adverb phrases.

What is the role of a noun clause in transforming complex sentences?

In transforming, you can reduce a noun clause into a noun phrase to make the sentence simple. For example, “I believe that he is smart” becomes “I believe him to be smart.”

How do adjective clauses help in transforming complex sentences to simple ones?

Adjective clauses are reduced to phrases, like changing “He is a boy who is smart” to “He is a smart boy.”

Can an adverb clause be reduced in sentence transformation?

Yes, adverb clauses can be simplified by converting them into adverb phrases. For example, “Although he was tired, he continued” becomes “Despite being tired, he continued.”

What conjunctions are commonly replaced in sentence transformation?

Subordinating conjunctions like “that,” “because,” and “when” are often omitted, with phrases replacing them.

Why is sentence transformation important in writing?

Sentence transformation improves variety and clarity in writing, making sentences concise without losing meaning.

Exercises:

Rule 1: Use participle phrases.

Complex: As soon as he heard the news, he left the house.

Simple: On hearing the news, he left the house.

Complex: After she finished her work, she went home.

Simple: Finishing her work, she went home.

Complex: As the sun rose, the birds began to sing.

Simple: At sunrise, the birds began to sing.

Complex: Since he was tired, he went to bed.

Simple: Being tired, he went to bed.

Complex: As soon as the alarm rang, he woke up.

Simple: Hearing the alarm, he woke up.

Complex: Because it was raining, we stayed inside.

Simple: Due to the rain, we stayed inside.

Complex: Since he was ill, he didn’t attend school.

Simple: Being ill, he didn’t attend school.

Complex: After the movie ended, they went for dinner.

Simple: Following the movie, they went for dinner.

Complex: As soon as the doorbell rang, the dog barked.

Simple: Hearing the doorbell, the dog barked.

Complex: Because the road was blocked, we took a detour.

Simple: Due to the roadblock, we took a detour.

Complex: Since she was late, she missed the bus.

Simple: Being late, she missed the bus.

Rule 2: Convert clauses to prepositional phrases.

Complex: Since it was raining heavily, they stayed indoors.

Simple: Due to the heavy rain, they stayed indoors.

Complex: As she was hungry, she ate early.

Simple: Due to hunger, she ate early.

Complex: Since he was late, he missed the meeting.

Simple: Due to his lateness, he missed the meeting.

Complex: Because the train was delayed, they waited longer.

Simple: Due to the train delay, they waited longer.

Complex: Since she was ill, she didn’t attend the event.

Simple: Due to illness, she didn’t attend the event.

Complex: As the road was under construction, we took a detour.

Simple: Due to road construction, we took a detour.

Complex: Because the weather was bad, the picnic was canceled.

Simple: Due to bad weather, the picnic was canceled.

Complex: Since it was a holiday, the store was closed.

Simple: Due to the holiday, the store was closed.

Complex: As the team was losing, they changed their strategy.

Simple: Due to losing, they changed their strategy.

Complex: Since he was tired, he skipped the gym.

Simple: Due to tiredness, he skipped the gym.

Complex: Because the project was urgent, they worked overnight.

Simple: Due to the urgency, they worked overnight.

Rule 3: Use infinitives.

Complex: He worked hard so that he could succeed.

Simple: He worked hard to succeed.

Complex: She exercised regularly so that she could stay fit.

Simple: She exercised regularly to stay fit.

Complex: He studied hard so that he could pass the exam.

Simple: He studied hard to pass the exam.

Complex: They saved money so that they could buy a house.

Simple: They saved money to buy a house.

Complex: She attended classes so that she could improve her skills.

Simple: She attended classes to improve her skills.

Complex: He worked overtime so that he could earn more money.

Simple: He worked overtime to earn more money.

Complex: They arrived early so that they could get good seats.

Simple: They arrived early to get good seats.

Complex: She practiced daily so that she could perfect her craft.

Simple: She practiced daily to perfect her craft.

Complex: He trained hard so that he could win the competition.

Simple: He trained hard to win the competition.

Complex: They left early so that they could avoid traffic.

Simple: They left early to avoid traffic.

Complex: She saved money so that she could travel.

Simple: She saved money to travel.

Rule 4: Change clauses of reason to noun phrases.

Complex: Since he was tired, he didn’t go out.

Simple: Due to tiredness, he didn’t go out.

Complex: As she was sick, she stayed home.

Simple: Due to sickness, she stayed home.

Complex: Because it was too late, we went home.

Simple: Due to the lateness, we went home.

Complex: Since he was busy, he couldn’t attend the meeting.

Simple: Due to busyness, he couldn’t attend the meeting.

Complex: As it was his birthday, he threw a party.

Simple: Due to his birthday, he threw a party.

Complex: Because the traffic was heavy, we were delayed.

Simple: Due to heavy traffic, we were delayed.

Complex: Since the weather was hot, they stayed inside.

Simple: Due to the heat, they stayed inside.

Complex: As the road was blocked, we took another route.

Simple: Due to the blockage, we took another route.

Complex: Because it was snowing, they canceled the event.

Simple: Due to snow, they canceled the event.

Complex: Since the prices were high, we didn’t buy anything.

Simple: Due to high prices, we didn’t buy anything.

Complex: As the teacher was absent, the class was canceled.

Simple: Due to the teacher’s absence, the class was canceled.

Rule 5: Use noun phrases to replace relative clauses.

Complex: The man who is speaking is my teacher.

Simple: The man speaking is my teacher.

Complex: The girl who is dancing is my sister.

Simple: The girl dancing is my sister.

Complex: The car that is parked outside belongs to John.

Simple: The car parked outside belongs to John.

Complex: The boy who is running is my friend.

Simple: The boy running is my friend.

Complex: The woman who is talking is a doctor.

Simple: The woman talking is a doctor.

Complex: The book that is on the table is mine.

Simple: The book on the table is mine.

Complex: The dog that is barking belongs to my neighbor.

Simple: The barking dog belongs to my neighbor.

Complex: The man who is walking down the street is a policeman.

Simple: The man walking down the street is a policeman.

Complex: The house that is painted blue is theirs.

Simple: The blue-painted house is theirs.

Complex: The movie that is playing is a comedy.

Simple: The movie playing is a comedy.

Complex: The letter that was written yesterday is from my mother.

Simple: The letter written yesterday is from my mother.

Rule 6: Use prepositional phrases instead of subordinate clauses.

Complex: Although he was late, he completed the assignment.

Simple: Despite being late, he completed the assignment.

Complex: Although she was tired, she finished the race.

Simple: Despite being tired, she finished the race.

Complex: Although it was raining, they went to the park.

Simple: Despite the rain, they went to the park.

Complex: Although he was ill, he attended the meeting.

Simple: Despite his illness, he attended the meeting.

Complex: Although she is young, she is very responsible.

Simple: Despite her youth, she is very responsible.

Complex: Although he failed the exam, he didn’t give up.

Simple: Despite failing the exam, he didn’t give up.

Complex: Although it was difficult, they managed to succeed.

Simple: Despite the difficulty, they managed to succeed.

Complex: Although she lost her job, she remained positive.

Simple: Despite losing her job, she remained positive.

Complex: Although he is wealthy, he is not happy.

Simple: Despite his wealth, he is not happy.

Complex: Although it was expensive, they bought the car.

Simple: Despite the expense, they bought the car.

Complex: Although it was late, they continued working.

Simple: Despite the lateness, they continued working.

Rule 7: Use infinitives to indicate purpose.

Complex: He worked hard so that he could achieve his goals.

Simple: He worked hard to achieve his goals.

Complex: She studied hard so that she could pass the exam.

Simple: She studied hard to pass the exam.

Complex: He saved money so that he could buy a new car.

Simple: He saved money to buy a new car.

Complex: She exercised daily so that she could stay fit.

Simple: She exercised daily to stay fit.

Complex: They trained hard so that they could win the match.

Simple: They trained hard to win the match.

Complex: He learned English so that he could travel abroad.

Simple: He learned English to travel abroad.

Complex: She worked overtime so that she could finish the project.

Simple: She worked overtime to finish the project.

Complex: He practiced daily so that he could become a better musician.

Simple: He practiced daily to become a better musician.

Complex: They moved to the city so that they could find better jobs.

Simple: They moved to the city to find better jobs.

Complex: She learned to cook so that she could prepare meals for her family.

Simple: She learned to cook to prepare meals for her family.

Complex: He attended workshops so that he could improve his skills.

Simple: He attended workshops to improve his skills.

Rule 8: Use gerund phrases instead of adverbial clauses.

Complex: Since he was busy, he couldn’t attend the party.

Simple: Being busy, he couldn’t attend the party.

Complex: Since she was late, she missed the meeting.

Simple: Being late, she missed the meeting.

Complex: As it was raining, we stayed indoors.

Simple: Being rainy, we stayed indoors.

Complex: Since he was sick, he stayed home.

Simple: Being sick, he stayed home.

Complex: Since she was tired, she went to bed early.

Simple: Being tired, she went to bed early.

Complex: Since he was angry, he left the room.

Simple: Being angry, he left the room.

Complex: As it was hot, they stayed by the pool.

Simple: Being hot, they stayed by the pool.

Complex: Since he was injured, he couldn’t play the game.

Simple: Being injured, he couldn’t play the game.

Complex: Since she was busy, she didn’t answer the phone.

Simple: Being busy, she didn’t answer the phone.

Complex: Since he was tired, he took a nap.

Simple: Being tired, he took a nap.

Complex: Since she was excited, she couldn’t sleep.

Simple: Being excited, she couldn’t sleep.

Rule 9: Convert adverbial clauses of time to prepositional phrases.

Complex: When the rain stopped, we went outside.

Simple: After the rain stopped, we went outside.

Complex: When the movie ended, we went home.

Simple: After the movie, we went home.

Complex: When he finished his homework, he went out to play.

Simple: After finishing his homework, he went out to play.

Complex: When the teacher arrived, the students became quiet.

Simple: Upon the teacher’s arrival, the students became quiet.

Complex: When the bell rang, the class ended.

Simple: At the sound of the bell, the class ended.

Complex: When she saw the time, she hurried.

Simple: Seeing the time, she hurried.

Complex: When the sun set, they lit a fire.

Simple: After sunset, they lit a fire.

Complex: When the concert started, everyone cheered.

Simple: At the start of the concert, everyone cheered.

Complex: When the train arrived, we boarded.

Simple: Upon the train’s arrival, we boarded.

Complex: When the game ended, the fans celebrated.

Simple: After the game, the fans celebrated.

Complex: When the clock struck midnight, the party ended.

Simple: At midnight, the party ended.

Rule 10: Replace clauses of comparison with phrases.

Complex: She is as intelligent as her brother is.

Simple: She is as intelligent as her brother.

Complex: This dress is as expensive as the other one.

Simple: This dress is as expensive as the other.

Complex: He is as tall as his father is.

Simple: He is as tall as his father.

Complex: This book is as interesting as the one I read last week.

Simple: This book is as interesting as last week’s.

Complex: The weather is as cold as it was yesterday.

Simple: The weather is as cold as yesterday.

Complex: The food is as good as it was last time.

Simple: The food is as good as last time.

Complex: Her singing is as beautiful as her mother’s is.

Simple: Her singing is as beautiful as her mother’s.

Complex: His performance is as impressive as his previous ones.

Simple: His performance is as impressive as his previous.

Complex: This movie is as long as the last one.

Simple: This movie is as long as the last.

Complex: The test was as difficult as the last exam.

Simple: The test was as difficult as the last.

Complex: This car is as fast as the one we rented before.

Simple: This car is as fast as the previous one.

Rule 11: Condense clauses with “so… that” into phrases.

Complex: The storm was so strong that it caused a lot of damage.

Simple: The storm was strong enough to cause a lot of damage.

Complex: The box was so heavy that I couldn’t lift it.

Simple: The box was too heavy to lift.

Complex: He was so tired that he fell asleep immediately.

Simple: He was too tired to stay awake.

Complex: The movie was so boring that we left early.

Simple: The movie was too boring to watch till the end.

Complex: The noise was so loud that we couldn’t hear anything.

Simple: The noise was too loud to hear anything else.

Complex: The water was so cold that no one swam.

Simple: The water was too cold for swimming.

Complex: The hill was so steep that it was hard to climb.

Simple: The hill was too steep to climb easily.

Complex: The problem was so difficult that he couldn’t solve it.

Simple: The problem was too difficult to solve.

Complex: The test was so hard that many students failed.

Simple: The test was too hard for many students.

Complex: The weather was so bad that the event was canceled.

Simple: The weather was too bad for the event.

Complex: The instructions were so unclear that no one understood them.

Simple: The instructions were too unclear to understand.

Rule 12: Convert clauses of reason into nouns or noun phrases.

Complex: Because she worked hard, she succeeded.

Simple: Her hard work led to her success.

Complex: Because he studied well, he passed the exam.

Simple: His good study habits led to his success.

Complex: Because it rained, the match was postponed.

Simple: Rain caused the match to be postponed.

Complex: Because he was diligent, he completed the project early.

Simple: His diligence allowed him to finish early.

Complex: Because she was late, she missed the bus.

Simple: Her lateness caused her to miss the bus.

Complex: Because the road was icy, they canceled the trip.

Simple: The icy road caused the trip to be canceled.

Complex: Because the weather was nice, we went for a walk.

Simple: The nice weather led us to go for a walk.

Complex: Because he is honest, people trust him.

Simple: His honesty earns people’s trust.

Complex: Because the car broke down, they took the bus.

Simple: The car breakdown made them take the bus.

Complex: Because the food was spicy, I couldn’t eat it.

Simple: The spiciness of the food stopped me from eating it.

Complex: Because it was dangerous, they avoided the area.

Simple: The danger caused them to avoid the area.

Rule 13: Use gerund or participle phrases for clauses of condition.

Complex: If you work hard, you will succeed.

Simple: Working hard ensures success.

Complex: If you practice daily, you will improve.

Simple: Practicing daily leads to improvement.

Complex: If you save money, you can travel more.

Simple: Saving money allows for more travel.

Complex: If you eat healthy food, you will stay fit.

Simple: Eating healthy keeps you fit.

Complex: If you sleep early, you will wake up refreshed.

Simple: Sleeping early leads to waking up refreshed.

Complex: If you exercise regularly, you will be strong.

Simple: Exercising regularly makes you strong.

Complex: If you plan well, the project will be successful.

Simple: Planning well ensures project success.

Complex: If you avoid distractions, you can concentrate better.

Simple: Avoiding distractions helps concentration.

Complex: If you follow instructions, you will avoid mistakes.

Simple: Following instructions prevents mistakes.

Complex: If you are punctual, people will respect you.

Simple: Being punctual earns respect.

Complex: If you manage your time well, you will be more productive.

Simple: Managing time well increases productivity.

Rule 14: Replace relative clauses with adjectives.

Complex: The boy who is diligent always succeeds.

Simple: The diligent boy always succeeds.

Complex: The woman who is kind helped me.

Simple: The kind woman helped me.

Complex: The dog that is aggressive scared the children.

Simple: The aggressive dog scared the children.

Complex: The cake that was delicious was gone quickly.

Simple: The delicious cake was gone quickly.

Complex: The car that is red belongs to my brother.

Simple: The red car belongs to my brother.

Complex: The boy who is intelligent won the prize.

Simple: The intelligent boy won the prize.

Complex: The girl who is cheerful brightens the room.

Simple: The cheerful girl brightens the room.

Complex: The man who is honest was trusted by everyone.

Simple: The honest man was trusted by everyone.

Complex: The tree that is tall provides good shade.

Simple: The tall tree provides good shade.

Complex: The flower that is beautiful bloomed in the garden.

Simple: The beautiful flower bloomed in the garden.

Complex: The student who is hardworking gets good grades.

Simple: The hardworking student gets good grades.

Rule 15: Use gerunds instead of clauses of purpose.

Complex: She went to the gym so that she could stay fit.

Simple: She went to the gym for staying fit.

Complex: He attended the meeting so that he could gain insights.

Simple: He attended the meeting for gaining insights.

Complex: She studied hard so that she could pass the exam.

Simple: She studied hard for passing the exam.

Complex: They went shopping so that they could buy groceries.

Simple: They went shopping for buying groceries.

Complex: He saved money so that he could travel.

Simple: He saved money for traveling.

Complex: She practiced piano so that she could improve.

Simple: She practiced piano for improving.

Complex: He worked overtime so that he could earn more.

Simple: He worked overtime for earning more.

Complex: They exercised daily so that they could stay healthy.

Simple: They exercised daily for staying healthy.

Complex: She read books so that she could gain knowledge.

Simple: She read books for gaining knowledge.

Complex: He trained hard so that he could win the competition.

Simple: He trained hard for winning the competition.

Complex: She attended cooking classes so that she could learn new recipes.

Simple: She attended cooking classes for learning new recipes.

Rule 16: Convert adverbial clauses to absolute phrases.

Complex: After the sun set, they lit the campfire.

Simple: The sun having set, they lit the campfire.

Complex: After the bell rang, the students left the classroom.

Simple: The bell having rung, the students left the classroom.

Complex: Once the rain stopped, they went outside.

Simple: The rain having stopped, they went outside.

Complex: After the match ended, the team celebrated.

Simple: The match having ended, the team celebrated.

Complex: When the speech finished, the audience applauded.

Simple: The speech having finished, the audience applauded.

Complex: After the storm passed, they went home.

Simple: The storm having passed, they went home.

Complex: After the meeting ended, everyone left the room.

Simple: The meeting having ended, everyone left the room.

Complex: Once the movie ended, we left the theater.

Simple: The movie having ended, we left the theater.

Complex: When the music stopped, the dancers sat down.

Simple: The music having stopped, the dancers sat down.

Complex: After the presentation concluded, the audience clapped.

Simple: The presentation having concluded, the audience clapped.

Complex: Once the game ended, the fans cheered.

Simple: The game having ended, the fans cheered.

Rule 17: Reduce clauses with “if” to gerunds.

Complex: If you exercise regularly, you will stay fit.

Simple: By exercising regularly, you will stay fit.

Complex: If you practice more, you will improve.

Simple: By practicing more, you will improve.

Complex: If you save money, you can travel.

Simple: By saving money, you can travel.

Complex: If you eat healthy food, you will stay strong.

Simple: By eating healthy food, you will stay strong.

Complex: If you study hard, you will succeed.

Simple: By studying hard, you will succeed.

Complex: If you manage your time, you will be more productive.

Simple: By managing your time, you will be more productive.

Complex: If you practice patience, you will avoid stress.

Simple: By practicing patience, you will avoid stress.

Complex: If you read daily, your knowledge will improve.

Simple: By reading daily, your knowledge will improve.

Complex: If you exercise regularly, your stamina will increase.

Simple: By exercising regularly, your stamina will increase.

Complex: If you work hard, you will achieve your goals.

Simple: By working hard, you will achieve your goals.

Complex: If you take notes, you will understand better.

Simple: By taking notes, you will understand better.

Rule 18: Use infinitives for purpose.

Complex: He woke up early so that he could catch the bus.

Simple: He woke up early to catch the bus.

Complex: She saved money so that she could buy a house.

Simple: She saved money to buy a house.

Complex: He studied hard so that he could pass the exam.

Simple: He studied hard to pass the exam.

Complex: They worked overtime so that they could finish the project.

Simple: They worked overtime to finish the project.

Complex: She practiced piano so that she could improve her skills.

Simple: She practiced piano to improve her skills.

Complex: He trained every day so that he could win the race.

Simple: He trained every day to win the race.

Complex: They arrived early so that they could get good seats.

Simple: They arrived early to get good seats.

Complex: She took extra classes so that she could learn more.

Simple: She took extra classes to learn more.

Complex: He saved money so that he could go on vacation.

Simple: He saved money to go on vacation.

Complex: She read books so that she could expand her knowledge.

Simple: She read books to expand her knowledge.

Complex: He studied late so that he could complete the assignment.

Simple: He studied late to complete the assignment.

Rule 19: Convert clauses of result into phrases with infinitives.

Complex: The book was so interesting that I couldn’t put it down.

Simple: The book was too interesting to put down.

Complex: The mountain was so steep that it was difficult to climb.

Simple: The mountain was too steep to climb.

Complex: The task was so complicated that it took hours to finish.

Simple: The task was too complicated to finish quickly.

Complex: The weather was so cold that we couldn’t go outside.

Simple: The weather was too cold to go outside.

Complex: The music was so loud that we couldn’t hear anything else.

Simple: The music was too loud to hear anything else.

Complex: The question was so difficult that no one could answer it.

Simple: The question was too difficult to answer.

Complex: The box was so heavy that I couldn’t carry it.

Simple: The box was too heavy to carry.

Complex: The soup was so hot that I couldn’t drink it.

Simple: The soup was too hot to drink.

Complex: The problem was so complex that we couldn’t solve it.

Simple: The problem was too complex to solve.

Complex: The exam was so tough that many students couldn’t pass.

Simple: The exam was too tough to pass.

Complex: The novel was so boring that I couldn’t finish it.

Simple: The novel was too boring to finish.

Rule 20: Convert clauses of concession into phrases with gerunds.

Complex: Although he was tired, he finished the job.

Simple: Despite being tired, he finished the job.

Complex: Although she was scared, she faced the challenge.

Simple: Despite being scared, she faced the challenge.

Complex: Although it was raining, they went for a walk.

Simple: Despite the rain, they went for a walk.

Complex: Although he failed, he didn’t give up.

Simple: Despite failing, he didn’t give up.

Complex: Although she was upset, she spoke calmly.

Simple: Despite being upset, she spoke calmly.

Complex: Although the prices were high, they bought the house.

Simple: Despite the high prices, they bought the house.

Complex: Although he was nervous, he gave a great performance.

Simple: Despite being nervous, he gave a great performance.

Complex: Although she was late, she didn’t rush.

Simple: Despite being late, she didn’t rush.

Complex: Although the traffic was bad, we arrived on time.

Simple: Despite the bad traffic, we arrived on time.

Complex: Although the test was difficult, I passed.

Simple: Despite the difficulty of the test, I passed.

Complex: Although the movie was long, I enjoyed it.

Simple: Despite the length of the movie, I enjoyed it.

Rule 21: Transform clauses of purpose into gerunds.

Complex: He went to the gym so that he could improve his strength.

Simple: He went to the gym for improving his strength.

Complex: She studies hard so that she can get good grades.

Simple: She studies hard for getting good grades.

Complex: He exercises daily so that he can stay fit.

Simple: He exercises daily for staying fit.

Complex: They worked late so that they could meet the deadline.

Simple: They worked late for meeting the deadline.

Complex: She practices piano so that she can perfect her skills.

Simple: She practices piano to perfect her skills.

Complex: He saved money so that he could buy a new car.

Simple: He saved money for buying a new car.

Complex: She reads books so that she can expand her knowledge.

Simple: She reads books for expanding her knowledge.

Complex: He trains hard so that he can compete in the race.

Simple: He trains hard for competing in the race.

Complex: They moved to the city so that they could find better jobs.

Simple: They moved to the city for finding better jobs.

Complex: She attended classes so that she could learn a new language.

Simple: She attended classes for learning a new language.

Complex: He worked overtime so that he could earn more money.

Simple: He worked overtime for earning more money.

Rule 22: Use absolute phrases instead of subordinate clauses.

Complex: When the guests arrived, we started dinner.

Simple: The guests having arrived, we started dinner.

Complex: When the sun set, they lit the campfire.

Simple: The sun having set, they lit the campfire.

Complex: When the rain stopped, we went outside.

Simple: The rain having stopped, we went outside.

Complex: When the meeting ended, everyone left the room.

Simple: The meeting having ended, everyone left the room.

Complex: When the movie finished, we went home.

Simple: The movie having finished, we went home.

Complex: When the speech was over, the audience applauded.

Simple: The speech having ended, the audience applauded.

Complex: When the storm passed, we resumed our journey.

Simple: The storm having passed, we resumed our journey.

Complex: When the bell rang, the students left the classroom.

Simple: The bell having rung, the students left the classroom.

Complex: When the music stopped, everyone sat down.

Simple: The music having stopped, everyone sat down.

Complex: When the match ended, the players shook hands.

Simple: The match having ended, the players shook hands.

Complex: When the book was finished, she put it away.

Simple: The book having been finished, she put it away.

Rule 23: Reduce clauses of comparison into adjectives or phrases.

Complex: This bag is heavier than that one is.

Simple: This bag is heavier than that one.

Complex: She is more talented than her peers are.

Simple: She is more talented than her peers.

Complex: This task is harder than it seems.

Simple: This task is harder than it seems.

Complex: The house is more expensive than we thought it would be.

Simple: The house is more expensive than we thought.

Complex: He is taller than his father is.

Simple: He is taller than his father.

Complex: This exam is more difficult than the last one was.

Simple: This exam is more difficult than the last.

Complex: The new car is faster than the old one is.

Simple: The new car is faster than the old one.

Complex: The speech was more inspiring than anyone expected it to be.

Simple: The speech was more inspiring than expected.

Complex: The food is better than it looks.

Simple: The food is better than it looks.

Complex: His performance was more impressive than I thought it would be.

Simple: His performance was more impressive than I thought.

Complex: The movie was longer than I anticipated it would be.

Simple: The movie was longer than anticipated.

Rule 24: Simplify conditionals with gerunds.

Complex: If you practice, you will improve.

Simple: By practicing, you will improve.

Complex: If you eat well, you will stay healthy.

Simple: By eating well, you will stay healthy.

Complex: If you save money, you can travel.

Simple: By saving money, you can travel.

Complex: If you study hard, you will succeed.

Simple: By studying hard, you will succeed.

Complex: If you work out regularly, you will stay fit.

Simple: By working out regularly, you will stay fit.

Complex: If you plan ahead, you will avoid mistakes.

Simple: By planning ahead, you will avoid mistakes.

Complex: If you manage your time well, you will be more productive.

Simple: By managing your time well, you will be more productive.

Complex: If you listen carefully, you will understand the lesson.

Simple: By listening carefully, you will understand the lesson.

Complex: If you exercise regularly, you will stay strong.

Simple: By exercising regularly, you will stay strong.

Complex: If you practice patience, you will avoid frustration.

Simple: By practicing patience, you will avoid frustration.

Complex: If you sleep early, you will feel refreshed.

Simple: By sleeping early, you will feel refreshed.

Rule 25: Condense clauses of contrast using gerunds or prepositions.

Complex: Although it was late, they continued working.

Simple: Despite it being late, they continued working.

Complex: Although he was tired, he went for a run.

Simple: Despite being tired, he went for a run.

Complex: Although the weather was bad, they went hiking.

Simple: Despite the bad weather, they went hiking.

Complex: Although she was afraid, she gave the speech.

Simple: Despite being afraid, she gave the speech.

Complex: Although it was raining, they played soccer.

Simple: Despite the rain, they played soccer.

Complex: Although he was angry, he didn’t say anything.

Simple: Despite being angry, he didn’t say anything.

Complex: Although the movie was long, I enjoyed it.

Simple: Despite the length of the movie, I enjoyed it.

Complex: Although she was busy, she helped me.

Simple: Despite being busy, she helped me.

Complex: Although it was noisy, I managed to concentrate.

Simple: Despite the noise, I managed to concentrate.

Complex: Although he failed, he kept trying.

Simple: Despite failing, he kept trying.

Complex: Although they were tired, they finished the project.

Simple: Despite being tired, they finished the project.

Rule 26: Reduce clauses with “in order to” to infinitives

Complex: He left early in order to catch the train.

Simple: He left early to catch the train.

Complex: She studied hard in order to pass the exam.

Simple: She studied hard to pass the exam.

Complex: He saved money in order to buy a new car.

Simple: He saved money to buy a new car.

Complex: They worked overtime in order to meet the deadline.

Simple: They worked overtime to meet the deadline.

Complex: She practices daily in order to improve her skills.

Simple: She practices daily to improve her skills.

Complex: He trained hard in order to compete in the race.

Simple: He trained hard to compete in the race.

Complex: They moved to the city in order to find better jobs.

Simple: They moved to the city to find better jobs.

Complex: She attended the workshop in order to learn new techniques.

Simple: She attended the workshop to learn new techniques.

Complex: He woke up early in order to finish his work.

Simple: He woke up early to finish his work.

Complex: She saved money in order to travel the world.

Simple: She saved money to travel the world.

Complex: He stayed up late in order to study.

Simple: He stayed up late to study.

Rule 27: Condense relative clauses with adjectives or noun phrases.

Complex: The boy who is diligent will succeed.

Simple: The diligent boy will succeed.

Complex: The man who is speaking is my professor.

Simple: The speaking man is my professor.

Complex: The girl who is singing is my friend.

Simple: The singing girl is my friend.

Complex: The car that is parked outside is mine.

Simple: The parked car is mine.

Complex: The dog that is barking belongs to the neighbor.

Simple: The barking dog belongs to the neighbor.

Complex: The house that is painted blue is beautiful.

Simple: The blue-painted house is beautiful.

Complex: The woman who is smiling is my mother.

Simple: The smiling woman is my mother.

Complex: The man who is walking down the street is the mayor.

Simple: The walking man is the mayor.

Complex: The tree that is blooming is lovely.

Simple: The blooming tree is lovely.

Complex: The book that is on the table is hers.

Simple: The book on the table is hers.

Complex: The cat that is sleeping on the chair is mine.

Simple: The sleeping cat is mine.

Rule 28: Condense adverbial clauses of time using participles.

Complex: After he finished his work, he went home.

Simple: Finishing his work, he went home.

Complex: After she completed the assignment, she submitted it.

Simple: Completing the assignment, she submitted it.

Complex: After the rain stopped, they went for a walk.

Simple: The rain stopping, they went for a walk.

Complex: When the class ended, the students left the room.

Simple: The class ending, the students left the room.

Complex: When the show finished, the audience applauded.

Simple: The show finishing, the audience applauded.

Complex: After the game ended, the team celebrated.

Simple: The game ending, the team celebrated.

Complex: When the bell rang, the class ended.

Simple: The bell ringing, the class ended.

Complex: After the movie ended, they went for dinner.

Simple: The movie ending, they went for dinner.

Complex: When the sun set, the stars appeared.

Simple: The sun setting, the stars appeared.

Complex: After the test was completed, the students relaxed.

Simple: The test completing, the students relaxed.

Complex: When the music stopped, everyone sat down.

Simple: The music stopping, everyone sat down.

Rule 29: Reduce clauses of reason to noun phrases

Complex: Because she was tired, she went to bed early.

Simple: Her tiredness made her go to bed early.

Complex: Because he was hungry, he ate a lot.

Simple: His hunger made him eat a lot.

Complex: Because it was cold, they stayed inside.

Simple: The cold weather kept them inside.

Complex: Because she was ill, she didn’t attend the event.

Simple: Her illness prevented her from attending the event.

Complex: Because the road was blocked, we took a detour.

Simple: The roadblock forced us to take a detour.

Complex: Because he was angry, he didn’t speak.

Simple: His anger kept him silent.

Complex: Because the prices were high, we didn’t buy anything.

Simple: The high prices stopped us from buying anything.

Complex: Because she was upset, she didn’t eat dinner.

Simple: Her upset mood kept her from eating dinner.

Complex: Because it was raining, the event was canceled.

Simple: The rain caused the event to be canceled.

Complex: Because they were tired, they took a break.

Simple: Their tiredness made them take a break.

Complex: Because she was late, she missed the meeting.

Simple: Her lateness caused her to miss the meeting.

Rule 30: Use absolute phrases to reduce time clauses.

Complex: Once the sun had set, they lit the campfire.

Simple: The sun having set, they lit the campfire.

Complex: Once the guests had arrived, dinner was served.

Simple: The guests having arrived, dinner was served.

Complex: Once the rain had stopped, we left the house.

Simple: The rain having stopped, we left the house.

Complex: Once the bell had rung, the class ended.

Simple: The bell having rung, the class ended.

Complex: Once the speech had finished, the audience applauded.

Simple: The speech having finished, the audience applauded.

Complex: Once the work had been completed, they took a break.

Simple: The work having been completed, they took a break.

Complex: Once the concert had ended, everyone went home.

Simple: The concert having ended, everyone went home.

Complex: Once the presentation had finished, the meeting was adjourned.

Simple: The presentation having finished, the meeting was adjourned.

Complex: Once the storm had passed, we resumed our journey.

Simple: The storm having passed, we resumed our journey.

Complex: Once the game had ended, the players shook hands.

Simple: The game having ended, the players shook hands.

Complex: Once the movie had finished, they left the theater.

Simple: The movie having finished, they left the theater.