While words like 'and', 'but', and 'so' are great for basic sentence joining, relying on them too much makes writing sound repetitive. Advanced writers use a variety of techniques to combine ideas.

1. Using Relative Pronouns

Combine sentences using who, which, that, or whose.
Original: I have a friend. He lives in Paris.
Joined: I have a friend who lives in Paris.

2. Using Participles

Use -ing or -ed forms to combine sentences sharing the same subject.
Original: She opened the door. She saw the surprise.
Joined: Opening the door, she saw the surprise.

3. Using Infinitives

Use 'to + verb' to express purpose.
Original: He went to the store. He wanted to buy milk.
Joined: He went to the store to buy milk.