B2 Stage 1: Sentence
Join two ideas in one sentence
Joining two ideas in one sentence: although, because, but
You can join two connected ideas in one sentence with a word like because, although, when or unless.
This guide is for B1 writers moving to B2. It is a stage 1 skill: write one sentence (8-40 words).
When to use joined ideas
When you have two ideas that belong together: a reason, a surprise, a time or a condition. It works on any topic and sounds smoother than two short sentences.
Joined ideas: how to do it
Two short ideas often work better as one sentence, when they belong together. Choose a joining word that fits how the ideas are connected: because (a reason), although (a surprise), when (a time), unless (only if not), so that (a purpose), while (at the same time, or a contrast). Example: 'I cook at home because it is cheaper than eating out.' If the joining word comes first, put a comma after the first part: 'Although it is cheap, it takes time.' Both parts must be complete: 'Because it is cheap.' on its own is only half a sentence.
Useful language for joined ideas
- Although ..., ...
- ..., because ...
- ..., unless ...
- ..., so that ...
- As soon as ..., ...
- While ..., ...
Example of joined ideas
Although many people skip breakfast when they are in a hurry, they often feel tired later because they have eaten nothing since dinner.
Topic: Skipping breakfast
How the BetterWrite coach checks joined ideas
The BetterWrite coach checks 3 points for this skill, plus accuracy and staying on topic, and quotes your own words when one is not there yet.
Try it
Write ONE sentence about living in a big city. Join two connected ideas with a word like because, although, when or unless.
Write 8-40 words (one sentence).