Finding the Sentence Core -- ignore but don't erase
The sentence core or sentence base is the smallest statement possible for a sentence. To find this, we look for the simple subject (one word if possible) and the simple predicate (the verb phrase). Any modifiers are omitted. The core is the basic element of a clause or a simple sentence. Keep in mind that a clause is a group of words having both a subject and a verb.
The value of being able to isolate the sentence core is to be clear about the basic elements of a sentence, and to add modifiers more thoughtfully. This allows you to manipulate, expand, and shape your sentences with more craft and precision.
Remember that subjects and verbs can be "compound," meaning a sentence can have more than one subject and verb. Sentences can also have more than one clause.
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