Language is learnt with the help of proper punctuations and structuring, which helps us deliver our messages and ideas in a more meaningful way so that others can better understand. Knowing the four types of sentences will help us use appropriate phrases and convey a clearer message in the right tone. Therefore, it is important that your speech or writing is not confusing and you know when and how to use correct punctuation.

The four types of sentences include Declarative, exclamatory, imperative and interrogative. The following sections will be used to discuss the functions and the patterns of the four types of sentences.

The most common four kinds of sentences

Declarative/Statement Sentences: This type of sentence helps to state basic information and make statements. Declarative sentences can also be used to express opinions or ideas. A declarative sentence is the most commonly used and is most prevalent in speech and academic texts among the four types of sentences. Ensure to end declarative sentences with a period.

Some examples of a declarative sentence are:

• Most of the students failed to pass the surprise test.
• I love having tea in the morning.
• The designer needs an upgraded computer.

Exclamatory/Exclamation sentence: This type of sentence is generally used to express deep feelings or emotions. It can be happiness, sadness, disbelief and must end with an exclamation point. Exclamatory sentences are rarely used in a high objective and formal writings.

Examples of exclamatory sentence

• I secured the first rank in class!
• The picnic was fun!
• I got this car at an unbelievable price!

Command/Imperative sentence: This type of sentence is used when placing a demand or giving orders. These sentences end with a period; however, an exclamation mark might also be used sometimes. Depending on the conveyed message, these sentences can either be positive or negative.

Example of an imperative sentence

• Do not speak like that to me again.
• No smoking inside the building.
• Wash your hands before eating.

Interrogative/Question sentences: This is a very simple type of sentence that helps in asking questions. A question mark usually marks the end of such a sentence. You can choose words like when, where, why etc., to frame your questions.

Examples of interrogative sentences

• When will you finish the assignment?
• What is the subject of the essay?
• What are the different types of sentences?

Using the four types of sentences in practice

Declarative sentences help provide purpose and direction for the context, which helps the reader understand the flow and perspective of the topic. Declarative sentences can be used in formal as well as creative writing. A simple sentence like “The crypto market crashed today” will deliver serious information to the readers. Such structuring helps to lay down facts and details in a simple and easy to understand manner.

Readers can associate with emotions and feelings when they read or hear an exclamatory sentence. For example, “I scored an A in my test” helps to convey joy. Use this type of sentence to stimulate the readers’ imagination. Understandably, this is one of the four types of sentences you don’t want to use too often as it might make the writing look amateur.

When you are looking to state your demand or give an order/command, imperative sentences are to be used. The action of the reader will be based on your command. To make your writing more pleasing and politer, try using please or just at the beginning of your sentence. Rather than asking someone to “Do your work”, cushion it politely with “Please” at the beginning of the sentence.

Interrogative sentences are used to ask questions and, therefore, should be direct to rule out any chances of miscommunication. An example of this might be, rather than asking indirect questions like “I was wondering if we can go out sometime”, ask, “would you like to go out with me?” This makes the question easy to understand and helps to get straightforward answers.

It is important to use these four types of sentences to prevent your speech and writing from becoming dull and monotonous. Interrogative sentences should be used to hook the readers and add depth to your writing. Use these four types of sentences creatively to give a beautiful flow to your writing.

Whether you are writing an essay or a fictional story, it is important to understand when and how these sentences are used. Remember that exclamatory sentences are rarely used in scientific and technical writings.