punctuation rules for essay writing

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Brief Overview of Punctuation

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When speaking, we can pause or change the tone of our voices to indicate emphasis. When writing, we use punctuation to indicate these places of emphases. This handout should help to clarify when and how to use various marks of punctuation.

Use a comma to join two independent clauses and a coordinating conjunction (and, but, or, for, nor, so).

Use a comma after an introductory phrase, prepositional phrase, or dependent clause.

Use a comma to separate elements in a series. Although there is no set rule that requires a comma before the last item in a series, it seems to be a general academic convention to include it. The examples below demonstrate this trend.

Use a comma to separate nonessential elements from a sentence. More specifically, when a sentence includes information that is not crucial to the message or intent of the sentence, enclose it in or separate it by commas.

Use a comma between coordinate adjectives (adjectives that are equal and reversible).

Use a comma after a transitional element (however, therefore, nonetheless, also, otherwise, finally, instead, thus, of course, above all, for example, in other words, as a result, on the other hand, in conclusion, in addition)

Use a comma with quoted words.

Use a comma in a date.

Use a comma in a number.

Use a comma in a personal title.

Use a comma to separate a city name from the state.

Avoid comma splices (two independent clauses joined only by a comma). Instead, separate the clauses with a period, with a comma followed by a coordinating conjunction, or with a semicolon.

Use a semicolon to join two independent clauses when the second clause restates the first or when the two clauses are of equal emphasis.

Use a semicolon to join two independent clauses when the second clause begins with a conjunctive adverb (however, therefore, moreover, furthermore, thus, meanwhile, nonetheless, otherwise) or a transition (in fact, for example, that is, for instance, in addition, in other words, on the other hand, even so).

Use a semicolon to join elements of a series when individual items of the series already include commas.

For more information on semicolons, please see the "90-Second Semicolon" vidcast series on the Purdue OWL YouTube Channel .

Use a colon to join two independent clauses when you wish to emphasize the second clause.

Use a colon after an independent clause when it is followed by a list, a quotation, an appositive, or other ideas directly related to the independent clause.

Use a colon at the end of a business letter greeting.

Use a colon to separate the hour and minute(s) in a time notation.

Use a colon to separate the chapter and verse in a Biblical reference.

Parenthesis

Parentheses are used to emphasize content. They place more emphasis on the enclosed content than commas. Use parentheses to set off nonessential material, such as dates, clarifying information, or sources, from a sentence.

Dashes are used to set off or emphasize the content enclosed within dashes or the content that follows a dash. Dashes place more emphasis on this content than parentheses.

Use a dash to set off an appositive phrase that already includes commas. An appositive is a word that adds explanatory or clarifying information to the noun that precedes it.

Quotation Marks

Use quotation marks to enclose direct quotations. Note that commas and periods are placed inside the closing quotation mark, and colons and semicolons are placed outside. The placement of question and exclamation marks depends on the situation.

Use quotation marks to indicate the novel, ironic, or reserved use of a word.

Use quotation marks around the titles of short poems, song titles, short stories, magazine or newspaper articles, essays, speeches, chapter titles, short films, and episodes of television or radio shows.

Do not use quotation marks in indirect or block quotations.

Underlining and italics are often used interchangeably. Before word-processing programs were widely available, writers would underline certain words to indicate to publishers to italicize whatever was underlined. Although the general trend has been moving toward italicizing instead of underlining, you should remain consistent with your choice throughout your paper. To be safe, you could check with your teacher to find out which he/she prefers. Italicize the titles of magazines, books, newspapers, academic journals, films, television shows, long poems, plays of three or more acts, operas, musical albums, works of art, websites, and individual trains, planes, or ships.

Italicize foreign words.

Italicize a word or phrase to add emphasis.

Italicize a word when referring to that word.

Punctuation Marks: All You Ever Wanted to Know About Them!

There are three principles which can lead you to success in writing — style, meaning, and grammar. Clarity and precision are things that always impress those who read and evaluate your texts, and demonstrate your educational and personal qualities. Grammar and punctuation are vital not only for your academic success, but also when you text a date you want to impress, correspond for a job interview, chat with your colleagues, and so on.

There are 14 punctuation marks used in English grammar. You probably know most of them, but it does not hurt to repeat them. They are the period, question mark, exclamation point, comma, semicolon, colon, dash, hyphen, parentheses, brackets, braces, apostrophe, quotation marks, and ellipsis. If you use them correctly, your writing will be much easier and appealing to read.

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Of course, there are certain differences between punctuation in British and American English. They are not major, but they are still important. For example, in American English, such popular abbreviations like Mr., Ms., and Mrs. have periods. In British however, no periods are used. When writing the time, British English employs periods—where noon would be 12.00. In the same case, the American system uses colons (12:00). The names of the punctuation marks can also be different. Look at the table before we move on to find out how to use them. Let's go deeper with our coursework writing service .

Sentence Endings: The Period, Question Mark and Exclamation Point

Let's begin with sentence endings. Sentences are an integral part of any text or message. You can end a sentence with the period, question mark, or exclamation point. The period (.) is usually used to end simple declarative sentences. In most cases, they complete statements that do not carry any special emotional meaning and do not infer a question.

Examples: Mary and Tom got married in 2020. He loves playing baseball.

A question mark (?) usually indicates a direct question and is also placed at the end of a sentence.

Examples: When did Mary and Tom marry? Does he love playing baseball?

The exclamation point (!) is used to showcase an emotion or to add special emphasis.

Examples: Wow, Mary and Tom are getting married! He loves playing baseball so much!

Comma, Semicolon, and Colon

Inside a sentence, there are also plenty of punctuation marks to be used. The most common ones are the comma, semicolon, and colon. They all indicate a pause in the sentence, so they are often misused among each other. Here is how to know when to use each of the symbols:

The comma is used to separate logical parts of a sentence. It includes ideas or elements that are inside the structure of a sentence. A comma can also be used to separate repetitive parts of a sentence, such as numbers, dates, or objects that are similar to each other. A comma is also used after a greeting and the end of a letter, before and after mentioning someone's name.

Examples: To separate logical parts of a sentence: When he came home, the sun was shining. To separate repetitive parts: I love movies such as “Pretty Woman”, “When Harry met Sally”, and “You've got mail”. To indicate a salutation: Thanks for all your help, Mark.

The semicolon (;) is usually used when connecting independent clauses. How will you know when to use commas or semicolons? A semicolon connects extra independent parts of a sentence. If you put a period between them, the sentence will still work. This will not be the case with a comma, where clauses depend on each other.

Examples: Sylvia was happy; she knew that he would fall in love with her pretty soon. As you can see, these two sentences can be easily separated.

A colon (:) can be used in three cases.

• When you introduce a quotation, an explanation, an example, or a series.

Example: It was up to her to take the following actions: graduate, find a job, and become a partner at her law firm.

• You can put a colon between independent clauses. It's like the case with a semicolon, but here the second part of the sentence explains the first.

Example: I didn't want to go to Brazil: I already had plans to go to Italy with my husband.

• The colon can also be used for emphasis when you want to single out one particular part of your sentence:

Example: She was sure of one thing: her friends.

Time, ratio, business correspondence and references — these are other cases where a colon can be used.

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Dash and Hyphen

The dash and hyphen are also quite common punctuation marks. Although they look similar, they are very different.

A dash is used to separate words into statements, and also to indicate range or connections.

Example: She said explicitly — Yes!

A hyphen is used to join two or more words together into a single concept. This way we get a compound term.

Examples: She is a well-known doctor working part-time. I went on a Rome-Paris flight.

Brackets, Braces, and Parentheses

Symbols like brackets, braces, and parentheses are used to include words that are a further explanation of the following part of a sentence or are considered a group. Brackets ([ ]) are notations which are mostly used for technical explanations, or to clarify meaning. The important part about brackets is that if you remove the information in the brackets, the sentence will still make sense.

Example: He [John] was the first one to graduate in the family.

Braces ({ }) look similar but they are mostly used in Math and computer programming to show units.

Example: 2{1+[23-3]}=x.

Parentheses ( ( ) ) are curved notations which are used to showcase thoughts or qualifying remarks. An important point about parentheses is that they can be replaced by commas without changing the meaning—in most cases.

Example: Mary Stuart (whose maiden name was Lockhart) went to buy a bottle of milk.

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Apostrophe and Ellipsis

The final and less used three punctuation forms are the apostrophe, quotation marks, and ellipsis. An apostrophe (') is mostly used when: there is an omission of a letter or letters from a word, in the possessive case, or for plurals of lowercase letters.

Examples: Omission of letters: I've wanted to do it for a long time. Possessive case: Kate's dog is a Golden retriever. Plural for lowercase letters: There are 3 p’s in the word “hippopotamus”.

‍ The ellipsis includes three periods (...) and is used in writing or printing to indicate an omission or pause in the thoughts of the writer. Ellipses are also useful for omitting unnecessary words that do not interfere with the meaning of the overall sentence.

Examples: I do not know about that… She was counting — one, two, three…

Quotation Marks

Quotation marks (" ") are primarily used to quote the words of another person.

Example: “Everything happens for a reason,” she said.

There are several instances in which you can use quotation marks. You can use them with direct quotes to quote someone’s message, with titles of certain works, to show other meanings from what was said literally, and to write words as words.

Quotation marks are usually used for a direct quote. When you change the sentence into the indirect quote, the quotation marks become unnecessary.

Examples: Direct quote: “I like the snow,” said Alice. Indirect quote: Alice said that she liked the snow.

So the important rule to remember is: “Quotation marks are used only with direct quotes”. You can quote not only a person, but also a written source.

There are two forms of direct quotations: run-in and block quotations. What are they and what is their difference? Run-in quotations are usually shorter. Their format is the same as the surrounding text. Block quotes are longer quotes that are separated from the surrounding text. Block quotations can even appear as a separate paragraph (or a series of paragraphs). They can also have a different font, a change in the line spacing, or have a wider margin.

Examples: The Father said, "Prospects for growth are really good." In "American History," the writer supposes, From the revolutionary war... (3)

So, the main rules about quotation marks are that if you open them, you need to close them as well. Where the quote starts and where it ends should be clear. Sometimes, the text inside quotation marks is capitalized, in other cases, it's not. So if you’re quoting a complete sentence, you should start the quote with a capital letter. This is the case even if you start the sentence, not the quote itself.

Example: She used the following phrase: “My life is a miracle.”

But, if you’re quoting a phrase or part of a sentence, you don't have to start with a capital letter:

Example: She considered them “rich and successful, like Hollywood stars.”

There are also single quotation marks. They look like this – ‘good day’ – and can be used instead of parentheses for translations.

Examples: Her ‘good day’ was Bonjourno in reality. He considers the word “Stars” lucky for his company.

There are also differences in formatting quotations in America and British style. Please, see the main differences for yourself.

*Place other punctuation inside quotation marks when that punctuation is part of what is being quoted, such as a quoted question.

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Punctuation rules for students and teachers: A complete guide

This article is part of the ultimate guide to language for teachers and students. Click the buttons below to view these.

Punctuation is the process of using recognized symbols and protocols to turn a collection of words into a logical, structured piece of writing to be read, and understood by a universal audience.

A COMPLETE GUIDE TO PUNCTUATION RULES FOR STUDENTS AND TEACHERS

We use punctuation in numerous ways to meet the purpose of your task and the needs of your audience, but essentially you are trying to achieve two outcomes.

• To make the text easier to read by adding pauses, breaks and points of emphasis.
• To add expression, detail and switch perspective when characters, and narrators are speaking.

This guide is designed to provide teachers and students with a common shared understanding of what punctuation is and how to use it effectively in all genres of writing.

It has consciously been written in simple language so that teachers can use these examples directly with students.

WHAT IS PUNCTUATION AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?

Punctuation refers to the set of marks that are used to regulate and clarify meaning and rhythm within a text. Punctuation helps clarify the meaning of a text by linking or separating words, phrases, clauses, and sentences.

There are approximately 14 different marks or signs that are used in this manner in English.

HOW TO TEACH PUNCTUATION

Like grammar, native English speakers will sometimes know how to use the various punctuation marks correctly in their own writing but find it challenging to explain to others.

To adequately explain to students how to use punctuation correctly, you’ll require a good understanding of English grammar and be comfortable using terms such as introductory phrases, dependent and independent clauses, coordinating and subordinating conjunctions etc.

Simply verbally outlining the rules for using the various punctuation marks is unlikely to be the most successful approach to teaching punctuation. Punctuation is all about context, and it is best to employ written examples to explain how each punctuation mark is correctly used.

Let’s take a look at five valuable tips to help with the teaching of punctuation in your classroom before we deep dive into punctuation rules with examples.

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WHAT ARE THE 14 TYPES OF PUNCTUATION MARKS?

The 14 types of punctuation commonly used in English are:

• Question Mark
• Exclamation Point
• Parentheses
• Quotation Marks

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5 TIPS FOR TEACHING PUNCTUATION SUCCESSFULLY

Tip 1. teach grammar.

Your students will likely love grammar as much as they love homework. Given the complexity of English grammar, this can be a hard sell. But, time spent mastering its vagaries will be time well-spent. Gaining a firm grasp of grammar will reap rich rewards for students in terms of understanding how to use the different forms of punctuation correctly.

It’s true, too, that English grammar can be an extremely broad area of study, so which areas should we focus on?

Developing a secure understanding of how to use punctuation correctly is nigh on impossible without first understanding dependent and independent clauses and subordinating and coordinating conjunctions. So that’s the best place to start.

Tip 2. Avoid Shortcuts

Likely, your students will have a vague understanding of how most punctuation marks will be used. However, most likely, their understanding will be superficial at best.

Often, the teacher’s students encounter in their younger years will drip feed them information regarding punctuation use in an easily digestible form and on a need-to-know basis. This information can often be so general as to be inaccurate.

Things like ‘use a comma when you need a short pause and a period when you need a longer one’ or ‘a period mark the end of a thought’, may serve some purpose for beginning writers. Still, these explanations fail to adequately explain the mechanics of how things work. Only grammar does this adequately.

Simplified explanations serve a limited purpose, and student ignorance soon gets exposed when writing at a higher level.

I speak from experience, unfortunately. An esteemed college professor once commented on an undergraduate paper of mine, “Well written and thoroughly researched . Unfortunately, the author doesn’t know a semicolon from a demisemiquaver.”

Tip 3. Employ Context

So, we’ve stressed the importance of teaching grammar as a means of communicating a clear understanding of how punctuation works. The danger of getting carried away with technical explanations is that we climb so high up on the ladder of abstraction that we leave our students stranded clueless on the ground below.

To combat this, our punctuation and grammatical explanations should always be accompanied by solid examples from written texts. This is an extension of the Show, Don’t Tell rule that creative writers love to abide by.

Tip 4. Stress Communication

We want our students to use punctuation and grammar accurately, but we don’t want them to become paralysed with fear before the “tyranny of the blank page”. Balance the need for accuracy with encouragement.

The purpose of language, written or spoken, is communication. When in doubt, suggest students abandon long, grammatically complex sentences in favour of shorter, simpler sentences that are easier to punctuate correctly.

Tip 5. Proofread, Edit…

As mentioned, striving for accuracy in punctuation is a good thing to see in our students. Sometimes, however, it can interrupt the flow of the writing process. Especially when still growing in competency. For this reason, it’s important to stress to students that punctuation should be part of the proofreading and editing process.

As students read through their work on completion, they can revise the punctuation they have used to ensure it accurately conveys the meaning they were attempting to express.

This way, writing flow is not interrupted, and writer’s block is likely avoided.

So, to review, to teach punctuation effectively:

• Ensure students have a firm understanding of the necessary rules of grammar
• Avoid using vague explanations of the rules of usage as shortcuts
• Be sure to contextualize explanations with clear examples from texts
• Stress the importance of clear communication in writing over all else
• Encourage punctuation checks as part of the editing process.

 APOSTROPHES ’

Apostrophes serve two purposes in writing.

• To shorten and link connected words in what is known as a contraction.
• To show possession or ownership of something.

APOSTROPHES USED WITHIN A CONTRACTION

The purpose of an apostrophe is to indicate where a letter, or letters have been removed from a contraction.

For example

“ They’re coming our way,” screamed the general, and if we don’t move now you’ll be stuck here forever.

APOSTROPHES USED TO DEMONSTRATE OWNERSHIP

An apostrophe is also used to show possession or ownership of something. To point out to the reader that this “thing” belongs to the subject being written about.

For Example

Gargamel was always searching for the Smurf’s hidden village ( The village belongs to the Smurfs )

Have you seen Eva’s school bag? (The bag belongs to Eva)

As Wendy turned and walked away you could almost hear Jimmy’s heart break in two. ( The heart belongs to Jimmy.)

BRACKETS ( ) [ ] { } / /

Depending upon the text type you are writing brackets will serve different purposes. Let’s take a look at some examples to make sense of this.

ROUND BRACKETS – ALSO KNOWN AS PARENTHESES

The round bracket can be used in three ways.

Using brackets to add extra information where required.

Neil Armstrong ( The first person to walk on the Moon ) was introduced last.

I got my first game console ( A Super Nintendo ) when I was ten.

Try not to get into the habit of overusing brackets to add information as a replacement for high-quality, engaging writing. For example, we could rewrite the above example like this.

“I’ ‘ll never forget my tenth birthday as I unwrapped my first game console, a Super Nintendo, which is exactly what I wanted.”

Using round brackets to indicate where information has come from when you are quoting, citing or using information directly taken from another source.

“That’s one small step for man, but one giant leap for mankind.” ( Neil Armstrong – 1969 )

“A direct quote from a book” ( AuthorLastName, AuthorFirstname.  Title . Publisher, Year. )

Using round brackets/parentheses to organize a written list.

Round brackets can be used with letters and numbers to organize lists. You can use either open or closed brackets as long as you are consistent.

Items Required

a ) Fishing Line

b ) Coat Hanger

c ) Crepe Paper

Follow these steps

( 1 ) Remove from packaging

( 2 ) Insert Batteries

( 3 ) Charge the unit for 1.5 hours before use

SQUARE BRACKETS [ ]

Square brackets add information to the reader that was not explicitly stated. This is very similar to the ( ) round brackets in purpose; however, square brackets indicate this information was added by someone other than the original author. They are most commonly found within articles and non-fiction texts where an editor has made amendments.

She [ Mrs. Jones ] did not find it amusing

“I would have been happy with any type of dog except that one” [ A poodle ] she told the judge.

BRACES OR CURLY BRACKETS {

Braces or curly brackets are most commonly used in technical writing and mathematics, It is also used in written texts to branch items into sub-categories or indicate that more than one word is being referred to.

Types of Shark

{ Whale Shark, Bull Shark

The range of numbers is { 2, 4, 6, 8 }

Slashes are rarely seen in writing. They are used to separate dates

And to represent structure on a database or within a folder structure.

c:\\root folder\sub folder

BULLET POINTS

Bullet points are also frequently referred to as dot points, and they are used to create lists

CAPITAL LETTERS A B C D E F

Capital Letters serve a number of purposes and are a foundational skill of punctuation and writing in general.

They are used to begin a sentence .

T he rug was dark blue.

They are used to identify a proper noun.

I asked Simon to repeat the question.

The Siberian Tiger is an endangered animal.

I ran up the hill as fast as I could.

A colon is used to inform the reader that there is more detail to follow is already written. It separates two clauses and explains the first.

For example.

You will need the following items : Chalk, Paper, Scissors

She competed in four events: Archery, Athletics, Swimming and Gymnastics

Commas are used to separate words and force the reader to pause.

They are used to separate lists, phrases and clauses in sentences.

At dinner we ate fish , carrots , potatoes , and rice.

Could you please bring a watch , phone , water , and a snack.

They are also used to pace a sentence to emphasise when to pause and clarify meaning.

My heart was racing , I could feel the adrenaline flowing through my body. Soon , I felt my body become calm and I was ready to compete.

Dashes are used to emphasise a longer pause or break within a sentence, often for dramatic effect.

Don’t confuse the dash ( — ) with the hyphen. ( – ) . The dash is longer

After much deliberation, the final verdict was delivered. — “Not Guilty” The judge stated confidently.

The ellipse is constructed by creating three consecutive full stops. They serve three distinct purposes.

Using ellipses to demonstrate where speech has been interrupted.

“Mum, I know you told me once … ”

“I must have told you a hundred times! She interrupted.

Using ellipses to demonstrate where parts of a quote have been removed. This is done to shorten up a statement and get to the point.

“Our team just didn’t have what it takes to win tonight … We played with our heads down and barely communicated.”

Finally, they are used to add dramatic effect when demonstrating a statement is incomplete. For example when someone is left speechless, or without a response.

“So where did you leave your phone?” Asked dad.

“I…, I…, I just don’t know…” I replied

EXCLAMATION MARKS !

The purpose of an exclamation mark is to demonstrate strong emotions within a sentence. They help the reader to determine if a word is to be spoken with emphasis, anger or passion.

“Go get em ! ” Yelled Coach

“Look out ! ” I screamed

“Because she loves you ! You crazy fool ! ” her father exclaimed

Exclamation marks also emphasize single words to be stressed within a phrase.

I stuck my hand down the hole slowly and carefully. “Ouch ! ” i shrieked, as I withdrew it at lightning speed.

FULL STOPS .

The purpose of a full stop (also known as a period in the United States) is to end a sentence. To remind the reader to take pause, as this sequence of the text is complete.

Dogs are loyal animals who respect their owners .

Finally, the game had came to an unceremonious end .

HYPHENS –

The hyphen – ( Not to be confused with the longer dash — ) is used to link words or break words into smaller parts.

For example to link connected words

It was the thirty – fifth time the club had won a title.

“I just love choc – chip ice cream.”

To link words at the end of a line

Emma was an African Croc-

odile. A big one.

Using hyphens to explain pronunciation

croc-o-dile

fun-da-men-tal

QUESTION MARKS ?

Question marks remind the audience that a question is being asked as opposed to a statement being made. Question marks are only placed at the end of a sentence.

“Are you done yet ? ” shouted dad.

“So, what are you going to do ? ” asked the quiz master

Will he ever find true love ?

QUOTATION MARKS & SPEECH MARKS (“ ”) (‘ ’)

Quotation marks, also known as speech marks demonstrate to the reader words or phrases that are spoken or quoted.

It doesn’t matter if you use double or single quotation marks so long as you are consistent.

Let’s look at an example of direct speech.

“ No matter what you say, I have to go back for them ” I explained to my commander.

‘ I’ll take the big one thanks. I’m really hungry today ’ I told the waiter

Quotation marks are also used to highlight slang, strange or technical words within a sentence.

My boss reminded me that this was a “ no-brainer ” and that I shouldn’t hesitate any longer.

My little sister called me “ captain stink-face ” whatever that meant.

SEMICOLONS ;

Semicolons break sentences apart for a more dramatic pause than a comma. The difference between the two is that a comma separates ideas whereas a semicolon connects ideas.

We walked for hour, upon hour without seeing or hearing a single soul; then something appeared from nowhere that would change this day forever.

This day was shaping up to be the greatest day of my life; and I was conscious to enjoy it while it lasted.

Excellent punctuation tutorial video

BEAUTIFUL PUNCTUATION POSTERS FOR YOUR CLASSROOM OR STUDY

These posters are a constant visual reminder about all types of punctuation marks and how to use them.

• Exclamation Marks
• Quotation Mark
• Semicolon’s
• Full Stop / Period ( Both included)
• Apostrophes
• Bullet Points
• Colon’s
• Capital Letters

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MORE GREAT ARTICLES TO SUPPORT PUNCTUATION RULES

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Punctuation

Punctuation fills our writing with silent intonation. We pause, stop, emphasize, or question using a comma, a period, an exclamation point or a question mark. Correct punctuation adds clarity and precision to writing; it allows the writer to stop, pause, or give emphasis to certain parts of the sentence.

This section of the tutorial covers the most general uses of punctuation marks. Special attention is given to the most common mistakes that occur when punctuation does not follow standard written English conventions. The guidelines and examples given here do not offer a comprehensive analysis of all punctuation uses, rather a quick overview of some of the most frequent punctuation mistakes students make in writing. The section also covers the use of apostrophes and capital letters; these do not directly refer to punctuation but more to mechanics and spelling. However, just as with punctuation marks, knowledge of their proper use is intrinsic to good writing.

Take the Quick Self-Test to identify the common punctuation mistakes you may encounter in your writing. Follow the links included in the answers to the quiz questions to learn more about how to correct or avoid each punctuation mistake. If you prefer, you may review the entire punctuation section.

Quick Self-Test

Review Punctuation

• Capitalization
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• Comma Splice
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Punctuation Guide

Good punctuation is crucial for successful academic writing. Many students use little punctuation in their essays beyond commas and full stops. But to be restricted to just two forms of punctuation mark, when writing your essay, is like building a house using only a hammer and a saw: you can do it; but not very well.

By learning to use more, or all, of the available forms of punctuation you will be able to communicate and express your ideas, and arguments, more clearly.

Full stop ( . )

Full stops have three distinct uses:

1.  To mark the end of a sentence

• The cat is completely black.

2.  To indicate abbreviated words a full stop indicates an abbreviation, unless first and last letters of the word are shown.

• The teacher will be Mr John Smith (B. Sci.).

3.  To punctuate numbers and dates

• All assignments should be submitted by 6. 6. 04.

Colon ( : )

A colon can be used:

1.  To indicate that a list, quotation or summary is about to follow;

• Buy these things: a packet of peanuts, two loaves of bread and a kilogram of steak.
• Writing the assignment is not easy: to begin with you have to do a lot of research.

2.  To separate an initial sentence/clause from a second clause, list, phrase or quotation that supports the first in a particular way.

• The television set, as the icon of the information age, represents the realisation of a dream for humankind: that knowledge and experience can be transmitted and shared across the boundaries of time and space.

Semicolon ( ; )

A semicolon:

1.  Separates two complete sentences that are, however, closely linked.

• To err is human; to forgive, divine.
• Don't go near the lions; they could bite you.

The semicolon can be replaced by a full stop, but the direct link between the two parts is lost.

2.  Serves as a second level of punctuation in a series of words or phrases which already have commas making some internal divisions.

• Only one paper, the Canberra Times, managed a regular daily edition on a Sunday; even there, Saturday`s offered a better read.
• She came out of the house, which had a long drive, and saw the police officer at the end of the path; but instead of continuing towards him, she hid until he left.

Comma ( , )

Commas have a vital role to play in longer sentences, separating information into readable units.

1.  A single comma ensures correct reading of a sentence which starts with a longish introductory element.

• When Australia celebrated its sesquicentenary in 1938, there was a little of the confidence or enthusiasm of the centennial celebrations of 1888.

2.  Pairs of commas help in the middle of a sentence to set off any string of words which is either a parenthesis, or in contrast, to whatever went before.

• Yet in representing ourselves to ourselves, as film and television do, these media are constantly introducing and reinforcing the assumptions.

3.  A set of commas is a means of separating items in a list.

• The details required are name, date of birth, address and telephone number.

4.  Sometimes a comma is needed between the last two items to ensure clarity.

• The details required are name, date of birth, address, and telephone number. 

Question mark ( ? )

A question mark is used at the end of a sentence which is a question.

• Have the students completed the exam? 

Apostrophe ( ' )

There are two uses for the apostrophe:

1) Contractions - A contraction is a shortened version of a word. An apostrophe is used to show that something has been left out, and where it has been left out.

• don't (do not)
• It'll (It will)
• she'll (she will)

2) Possessives - An apostrophe is used to indicate ownership/possession with nouns. To show ownership by a single individual, insert the apostrophe between the noun and the 's'. To show ownership by more than one individual, use the apostrophe at the end of the word.

• the dog's tail (belonging to a single dog)
• the women's magazines
• boys' football boots (belonging to more than one boy)
• Einstein's theory of relativity
• Avagradro's number

Note: Be careful: It's is the contraction of it is. It's is not a possessive (a possessive denotes ownership). 

When used correctly, a hyphen links two or more words, that normally would not be placed together, in order that they work as one idea. These are called compound nouns.

• Stonier's post-industrial economy is a service economy.
• There are four types of information-related machines.

Dashes ( — )

Hyphens should not be confused with dashes. Dashes re like brackets; they enclose extra information. A colon and semicolon would work just as well in the example opposite. Dashes are rarely used in academic writing.

1.  Although often used in pairs, dashes can also be used singularly.

• To the three divisions of the economy—agriculture, manufacturing, and service industries—Jones has added a fourth.

2.  Although often used in pairs, dashes can also be used singularly.

• Have an orange—or would you prefer a banana?
• While the importance of sport to Pay TV is clear, the opposite perspective is less certain—the importance of Pay TV to sport.

Parentheses ( )

1.  Parentheses are brackets used to include extra or nonessential material in sentences. Parentheses should be used sparingly and always appear in pairs.

• It was unusual to see Paul awake so early (as he often studied late into the night) and Jane greeted him with amazement.

2.  In citation systems like Harvard, parentheses are used to include in-text references.

• Larsen and Greene (1989) studied the effects of pollution in three major cities.
• "Australia is a settler society" (Hudson & Bolton 1997, p. 9).

Exclamation mark ( ! )

An exclamation mark is used at the end of a sentence and indicates surprise, anger, or alarm. Exclamation marks should be used very sparingly and are not often used in academic writing.

• The police stormed in and arrested her!
• How disgraceful! 

Ellipsis ( ... )

An ellipsis consists of three full stops. It indicates that material has been left out of a quotation. When quoting, it is sometimes necessary to leave out words or lines for reasons of relevance or length. Using an ellipsis makes any omissions known to your reader.

• "But to be restricted to just two forms of punctuation mark ... is like building a house using only a hammer and a saw: you can do it; but not very well."

  See next: Quick revision punctuation exercise

• Transition signals in writing
• Quotations and paraphrases
• Punctuation exercise
• Paraphrasing, summarising, quoting
• ^ More support

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Punctuation Rules

Table of contents, introduction.

Punctuation is the set of symbols and marks, such as commas, periods, and dashes, used in writing to clarify meaning, indicate pauses, and structure sentences effectively.

This article delves into the essence of punctuation and its paramount importance in writing. Clear and illustrative punctuation rules will be unveiled, guiding you through its practical application.

Let’s start with understanding what punctuation means!

What is Punctuation?

Why are punctuation rules important, punctuation rules, 1. full stop or period (.), 2. question marks (), 3. exclamation marks (), 4. commas (,), 5. semicolons (;), 6. colons (:), 7. dashes (–), 8. apostrophes (‘), 9. quotation marks (“), 10. ellipsis (…), 11. brackets ([]), 12. parentheses (()), 13. hyphen (-), essential punctuation tips.

Mastering punctuation is crucial for effective communication in writing. Here are some essential tips to enhance your punctuation skills and elevate the clarity and impact of your written work:

Example: The team worked diligently; however, they missed the deadline. Remember to bring the essentials: water, snacks, and a map.

Semicolons, colons, and dashes

What this handout is about.

This handout explains the most common uses of three kinds of punctuation: semicolons (;), colons (:), and dashes (—). After reading the handout, you will be better able to decide when to use these forms of punctuation in your own writing.

The semicolon looks like a comma with a period above it, and this can be a good way to remember what it does. A semicolon creates more separation between thoughts than a comma does but less than a period does. Here are the two most common uses of the semicolon:

1. To help separate items in a list, when some of those items already contain commas.

Let’s look at an example, as that is the easiest way to understand this use of the semicolon. Suppose I want to list three items that I bought at the grocery store:

apples grapes pears

In a sentence, I would separate these items with commas:

I bought apples, grapes, and pears.

Now suppose that the three items I want to list are described in phrases that already contain some commas:

shiny, ripe apples small, sweet, juicy grapes firm pears

If I use commas to separate these items, my sentence looks like this:

I bought shiny, ripe apples, small, sweet, juicy grapes, and firm pears.

That middle part is a bit confusing—it doesn’t give the reader many visual cues about how many items are in the list, or about which words should be grouped together. Here is where the semicolon can help. The commas between items can be “bumped up” a notch and turned into semicolons, so that readers can easily tell how many items are in the list and which words go together:

I bought shiny, ripe apples; small, sweet, juicy grapes; and firm pears.

2. To join two sentences.

An independent clause is a group of words that can stand on its own (independently)—it is a complete sentence. Semicolons can be used between two independent clauses. The semicolon keeps the clauses somewhat separate, like a period would do, so we can easily tell which ideas belong to which clause. But it also suggests that there may be a close relationship between the two clauses—closer than you would expect if there were a period between them. Let’s look at a few examples. Here are a few fine independent clauses, standing on their own as complete sentences:

I went to the grocery store today. I bought a ton of fruit. Apples, grapes, and pears were on sale.

Now—where could semicolons fit in here? They could be used to join two (but not all three) of the independent clauses together. So either of these pairs of sentences would be okay:

I went to the grocery store today; I bought a ton of fruit. Apples, grapes, and pears were all on sale.

I went to the grocery store today. I bought a ton of fruit; apples, grapes, and pears were all on sale.

I could NOT do this:

I went to the grocery store today; I bought a ton of fruit; apples, grapes, and pears were all on sale.

But why would I want to use a semicolon here, anyway? One reason might have to do with style: the three short sentences sound kind of choppy or abrupt. A stronger reason might be if I wanted to emphasize a relationship between two of the sentences. If I connect “I bought a ton of fruit” and “Apples, grapes, and pears were all on sale” more closely, readers may realize that the reason why I bought so much fruit is that there was a great sale on it.

Colons follow independent clauses (clauses that could stand alone as sentences) and can be used to present an explanation, draw attention to something, or join ideas together.

Common uses of colons

1. To announce, introduce, or direct attention to a list, a noun or noun phrase, a quotation, or an example/explanation. You can use a colon to draw attention to many things in your writing. The categories listed below often overlap, so don’t worry too much about whether your intended use of the colon fits one category perfectly.

Lists/series example:

We covered many of the fundamentals in our writing class: grammar, punctuation, style, and voice.

Noun/noun phrase example:

My roommate gave me the things I needed most: companionship and quiet.

Quotation example:

Shakespeare said it best: “To thine own self be true.”

Example/explanation example:

Many graduate students discover that there is a dark side to academia: late nights, high stress, and a crippling addiction to caffeinated beverages.

2. To join sentences. You can use a colon to connect two sentences when the second sentence summarizes, sharpens, or explains the first. Both sentences should be complete, and their content should be very closely related. Note that if you use colons this way too often, it can break up the flow of your writing. So don’t get carried away with your colons!

Example: Life is like a puzzle: half the fun is in trying to work it out.

3. To express time, in titles, and as part of other writing conventions. Colons appear in several standard or conventional places in writing. Here are a few examples:

• With numbers. Colons are used to separate units of time (4:45:00 expresses four hours, forty-five minutes, and zero seconds); ratios (2:1), and Bible verses and chapters (Matthew 2:24).
• In bibliography entries. Many citation styles use a colon to separate information in bibliography entries.

Example: Kurlansky, M. (2002). Salt: A world history. New York, NY: Walker and Co.

• With subtitles. Colons are used to separate titles from subtitles.

Example: Everest: The Last Frontier

• After the salutation in a formal business letter. A colon can be used immediately after the greeting in a formal letter (less-formal letters tend to use a comma in this location).

Example: To Whom It May Concern: Please accept my application for the position advertised in the News and Observer.

Common colon mistakes

1. Using a colon between a verb and its object or complement

Example (incorrect):The very best peaches are: those that are grown in the great state of Georgia.

To correct this, simply remove the colon.

2. Using a colon between a preposition and its object

Example (incorrect): My favorite cake is made of: carrots, flour, butter, eggs, and cream cheese icing.

3. Using a colon after “such as,” “including,” “especially,” and similar phrases. This violates the rule that the material preceding the colon must be a complete thought. Look, for example, at the following sentence:

Example (incorrect): There are many different types of paper, including: college ruled, wide ruled, and plain copy paper.

You can see that “There are many different types of paper, including” is not a complete sentence. The colon should simply be removed.

How to check for mistakes

Ask yourself a question: does the material preceding the colon stand on its own? One way to tell if the colon has been properly used is to look only at the words that come in front of the colon. Do they make a complete thought? If not, you may be using the colon improperly. Check above to see if you have made one of the most common mistakes.

Should you capitalize the first letter after a colon?

Different citation styles (such as MLA, APA, Chicago, and AMA) have slightly different rules regarding whether to capitalize the first letter after a colon. If it is important that you follow one of these styles precisely, be sure to use the appropriate manual to look up the rule.

Here’s our suggestion: generally, the first word following the colon should be lower-cased if the words after the colon form a dependent clause (that is, if they could not stand on their own as a complete sentence). If the following phrase is a complete (independent) clause, you may choose to capitalize it or not. Whichever approach you choose, be sure to be consistent throughout your paper.

Example with an independent clause, showing two different approaches to capitalization: The commercials had one message: The geeks shall inherit the earth. (correct) The commercials had one message: the geeks shall inherit the earth. (correct)

Example with a dependent clause (which is not capitalized): There are three perfect times to smile: when I’m with friends, when I’m alone, and when I’m with my dog. (correct)

The first thing to know when talking about dashes is that they are almost never required by the laws of grammar and punctuation. Overusing dashes can break up the flow of your writing, making it choppy or even difficult to follow, so don’t overdo it.

It’s also important to distinguish between dashes and hyphens. Hyphens are shorter lines (-); they are most often used to show connections between words that are working as a unit (for example, you might see adjectives like “well-intentioned”) or to spell certain words (like “e-mail”).

With that background information in mind, let’s take a look at some ways to put dashes to work in your writing.

1. To set off material for emphasis. Think of dashes as the opposite of parentheses. Where parentheses indicate that the reader should put less emphasis on the enclosed material, dashes indicate that the reader should pay more attention to the material between the dashes. Dashes add drama—parentheses whisper. Dashes can be used for emphasis in several ways: A single dash can emphasize material at the beginning or end of a sentence.

Example: After eighty years of dreaming, the elderly man realized it was time to finally revisit the land of his youth—Ireland.

Example: “The Office”—a harmless television program or a dangerously subversive guide to delinquency in the workplace?

Two dashes can emphasize material in the middle of a sentence. Some style and grammar guides even permit you to write a complete sentence within the dashes.

Example: Everything I saw in my new neighborhood—from the graceful elm trees to the stately brick buildings—reminded me of my alma mater.

Example (complete sentence): The students—they were each over the age of eighteen—lined up in the streets to vote for the presidential candidates.

Two dashes can emphasize a modifier. Words or phrases that describe a noun can be set off with dashes if you wish to emphasize them.

Example: The fairgrounds—cold and wet in the October rain—were deserted.

Example: Nettie—her chin held high—walked out into the storm.

2. To indicate sentence introductions or conclusions. You can sometimes use a dash to help readers see that certain words are meant as an introduction or conclusion to your sentence.

Example: Books, paper, pencils—many students lacked even the simplest tools for learning in nineteenth-century America.

Example: To improve their health, Americans should critically examine the foods that they eat—fast food, fatty fried foods, junk food, and sugary snacks.

3. To mark “bonus phrases.” Phrases that add information or clarify but are not necessary to the meaning of a sentence are ordinarily set off with commas. But when the phrase itself already contains one or more commas, dashes can help readers understand the sentence.

Slightly confusing example with commas: Even the simplest tasks, washing, dressing, and going to work, were nearly impossible after I broke my leg.

Better example with dashes: Even the simplest tasks—washing, dressing, and going to work—were nearly impossible after I broke my leg.

4. To break up dialogue. In written dialogue, if a speaker suddenly or abruptly stops speaking, hesitates in speech, or is cut off by another speaker, a dash can indicate the pause or interruption.

Example: “I—I don’t know what you’re talking about,” denied the politician.

Example: Mimi began to explain herself, saying, “I was thinking—” “I don’t care what you were thinking,” Rodolpho interrupted.

We hope that this handout has helped you better understand colons, semicolons, and dashes! For more information about punctuation, be sure to check out our handout on commas .

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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Punctuation: commas, apostrophes and quotation marks

(Last updated: 3 March 2020)

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As an editor, I see the same simple punctuation mistakes time and again costing students valuable marks when the overall quality of their work deserves a much higher grade. Whether it is everyday essay writing or an undergraduate dissertation, correct grammar punctuation is the quickest way to see a huge improvement in the quality of your work (not to mention better grades!) The good news is that help is at hand! Listed below are examples and explanations of the most common errors in using punctuation marks, along with some simple tricks to help you remember how to correct them.

Using commas correctly when writing essays

Whilst they can be very handy for breaking up long sentences, there are certain places in your writing where commas don’t belong . The biggest mistake of this kind is putting a comma before the word ‘and’. As the word acts as a natural bridge between two parts of a clause or sentence, there is almost never a need for a comma before it. This is one of those tricky grey areas of grammar where some authorities believe a comma is outright wrong, others that it is allowable. So my best advice would be to stay on the safe side by avoiding it where possible.

For example , a comma is necessary here:

“Mary Shelley and Bram Stoker are writers of the Gothic genre, both of whom were revolutionary for their time”

But NOT here because of the ‘and’:

“Mary Shelley and Bram Stoker are both writers of the Gothic genre and were revolutionary for their time”

TOP TIP: Try not to use a comma before ‘and’

One place where a comma is usually needed, however, is before the word ‘which’. This is one of the most common places as an editor where I see people missing out necessary punctuation marks. The word ‘which’ is often used where a pause is needed in the sentence (usually because the next part deals with a different idea or thought), whilst ‘that’ should be used when the sense of the sentence carries straight on. As the word ‘which’ indicates a new thought or idea, a natural pause is necessary, so a comma should be inserted, but many students seem to feel the word itself performs this function and omit the punctuation mark. For example, a comma is necessary here:

“Electrons, protons and neutrons make up the atom, which is the smallest part of an element”

But NOT here:

“Electrons, protons and neutrons are the three types of particle that make up an atom”

Of course there are some exceptions to this rule, when the word ‘which’ is being used in a different sense.

For example:

“He opened the box in which she had packed the lunch”

It is also possible to use the word ‘which’ without a comma in a restrictive sentence when it is referring to a specific object.

“The cake which had been cut was on the table”

However many more fussy markers and authorities would argue that the word ‘that’ would be better substituted here, so it is best to avoid it just in case.

TOP TIP: If when you read the sentence through there is a natural pause before the word ‘which’, or it introduces a new part of the sentence, don’t forget to precede it with a comma.

Correct use of quotation marks and apostrophes

Many students lose crucial marks by confusing when to use the single apostrophe (‘) with when to use double quotation marks (“). To use English grammar correctly it is essential to master the use of quotation marks. The rule here is simple – the double quotation mark is used for any dialogue or speech, and whenever quoting from a text.

“Come along,” said Mum, “we’re going to be late.”

The most famous line from Hamlet, “To be or not to be, that is the question”, epitomises the indecisiveness of the hero.

Single quotation marks are only used when describing a questionable or false assumption held by some to be true but widely doubted or disproved.

The ‘ghost’ the children had seen proved to be merely a sheet blowing on the washing line.

TOP TIP: Always use double quotation marks (“) for dialogue and quotes

Punctuation marks after speech marks

Another very common punctuation mistake that can be easily avoided is forgetting the punctuation at the end of a person’s speech. Just remember, even if it feels as if the sentence flows straight on, even if the person is going to speak again in the same sentence, correct grammar use dictates that you must use a punctuation mark every time you close speech marks.

“Thomas!” shouted Mum, “hurry up and get dressed.” “Yes Mum,” called Thomas, “I’m on my way.”

TOP TIP: Never close a speech mark without using punctuation.

Remember, punctuation and grammar are essential to excellent essay writing. Use these simple rules and top tips to rid your writing of those common punctuation mark slips and get the higher marks you deserve, every time. Remember, many of these mistakes are easy to make but you can still correct them by leaving yourself an extra few minutes at the end of your essay to check it through, paying special attention to your punctuation marks and remembering our punctuation rules for the correct apostrophe, quotation mark and comma use.

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Parentheses () | Definition, Punctuation, Rules & Examples

Published on April 14, 2015 by Shane Bryson . Revised on November 29, 2022.

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Table of contents

Side-by-side parentheses, nested parentheses.

Sometimes you might need to use two parenthetical elements together—for example, when a sentence contains both an acronym and a citation. Style guides disagree about whether it’s okay to place two (or more) parenthetical asides side by side.

APA style  recommends using a single set of parentheses with a semicolon separating the main elements.

• The results were sorted by gross domestic product (GDP; Odin, 2018).

Chicago  also advises this approach, but allows side-by-side parentheses if their content is entirely unrelated. If you do use two sets of parentheses, put a space between them.

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When you want to enclose a set of parentheses inside another set, most style guides recommend using square brackets for the inner element.

• Several prestigious organizations (e.g., National Institutes of Health (NIH)) supported the initiative.
• Several prestigious organizations (e.g., National Institutes of Health [NIH]) supported the initiative.

In British English , parentheses within parentheses are more acceptable. However, it’s always best to avoid this kind of nesting whenever possible. If you can rephrase the sentence to remove one of the parenthetical elements, this is the best option.

• Several prestigious organizations, such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH), supported the initiative.

When including a citation within a parenthetical element, APA style recommends using commas instead of parentheses or brackets.

• This sort of testing is usually unreliable (as Jenner [2012] took pains to show).
• This sort of testing is usually unreliable (as Jenner, 2012, took pains to show).

Sources in this article

We strongly encourage students to use sources in their work. You can cite our article (APA Style) or take a deep dive into the articles below.

Bryson, S. (2022, November 29). Parentheses () | Definition, Punctuation, Rules & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved July 2, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/language-rules/parentheses/

Butterfield, J. (Ed.). (2015).  Fowler’s dictionary of modern English usage  (4th ed.). Oxford University Press.

Garner, B. A. (2016).  Garner’s modern English usage (4th ed.). Oxford University Press.

Is this article helpful?

Shane Bryson

Shane finished his master's degree in English literature in 2013 and has been working as a writing tutor and editor since 2009. He began proofreading and editing essays with Scribbr in early summer, 2014.

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Punctuation Rules: How Proper Punctuation Can Transform Your Writing

By: Author Rosie

Posted on Last updated: October 25, 2023

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Punctuation is an essential part of the English language. It helps convey meaning, clarify ideas, and make your writing more effective. Whether you’re writing a professional email, a school paper, or a novel, understanding punctuation rules is crucial. In this article, we’ll cover the basics of punctuation, including common punctuation marks, their uses, and some tips for proper punctuation.

One of the most critical punctuation marks is the period. It signals the end of a sentence and is used in declarative and imperative sentences. Another essential punctuation mark is the comma, which helps separate items in a list, connect independent clauses, and clarify meaning. We’ll also cover semicolons, colons, quotation marks, parentheses, and brackets, among others.

Proper punctuation can make a significant difference in how your writing is perceived. It can help you convey your ideas more clearly, and make your writing more engaging and effective. So, whether you’re a student, a professional, or just someone who wants to improve their writing skills, understanding punctuation rules is a must. Let’s dive in and explore the world of punctuation together!

Basic Punctuation Rules

Punctuation is an essential aspect of writing that helps us convey our thoughts and ideas clearly. It is a set of marks used to regulate texts and clarify their meanings. In this section, we will cover some of the basic punctuation rules that everyone needs to know.

A period is used to indicate the end of a sentence. It is also used in abbreviations such as Mr., Dr., etc. Make sure to put only one period at the end of a sentence.

Example sentences:

• I am going to the store.
• The U.S.A. is a great country.

A comma is used to separate items in a list, join two independent clauses, and after an introductory phrase, prepositional phrase, or dependent clause. It is also used to set off non-essential information in a sentence.

• I need to buy apples, oranges, and bananas.
• I like to read books, but I also enjoy watching movies.
• After finishing my homework, I went to bed.

Question Mark

A question mark is used to indicate a question. It is placed at the end of a sentence that asks for information.

• What time is it?
• Did you finish your homework?

Exclamation Point

An exclamation point is used to indicate strong feelings or emotions. It is placed at the end of a sentence that expresses excitement, surprise, or anger.

• I won the lottery!
• How dare you!

Remember, overusing exclamation points can make your writing seem unprofessional and annoying.

These are just some of the basic punctuation rules that you need to know. By following these rules, you can improve the clarity and effectiveness of your writing.

When it comes to punctuation, commas are some of the most commonly used and often misused marks. They can be used for a variety of purposes, such as separating items in a series, setting off appositives, and indicating introductory phrases. In this section, we will discuss the different ways commas are used and provide examples to help you understand their proper usage.

Using Commas in a Series

One of the most common uses of commas is to separate items in a series. This is also known as the Oxford comma. The Oxford comma is the comma that comes after the penultimate item in a list of three or more items. For example:

• I need to buy eggs, milk, and bread.

In this sentence, the Oxford comma is the comma after “milk.” It is important to note that not all style guides require the use of the Oxford comma, so be sure to check the guidelines for the specific publication you are writing for.

Commas with Appositives

An appositive is a noun or noun phrase that renames or explains another noun or noun phrase. Commas are used to set off appositives from the rest of the sentence. For example:

• My friend, a doctor, is coming to visit.

In this sentence, “a doctor” is the appositive, and it is set off by commas.

Commas in Introductory Phrases

Introductory phrases are phrases that come at the beginning of a sentence and provide context or background information. Commas are used to separate introductory phrases from the rest of the sentence. For example:

• After the movie, we went out to eat.

In this sentence, “After the movie” is the introductory phrase, and it is separated from the rest of the sentence by a comma.

Remember, commas can drastically change the meaning of a sentence, so it is important to use them correctly. Be sure to review your writing for proper comma usage before submitting it.

In writing, a period is a punctuation mark that signals the end of a sentence. It is also known as a full stop. Periods are one of the most commonly used punctuation marks, and they are essential in conveying meaning and clarity in your writing.

Periods are used to indicate the end of a sentence that is a statement or a declarative sentence. For example, “The sky is blue.” The period is placed at the end of the sentence to indicate that it is a complete thought.

If the last word in a sentence is an abbreviation, the period used for the abbreviation also serves as the period for the sentence. For example, “She is a doctor, MD.” In this case, the period after “MD” serves as the end of the sentence.

Independent Clauses

When joining two independent clauses, a period can be used to separate them. For example, “I went to the store. I bought some milk.” In this case, the period is used to separate the two independent clauses, indicating that they are separate thoughts.

Abbreviations

Periods are also used to indicate abbreviations. For example, “Dr. Smith will see you now.” In this case, the period is used to indicate that “Dr.” is an abbreviation for “doctor.”

When creating a list of items, a period can be used to separate them. For example, “Please bring your textbook, notebook, and pen.” In this case, the period is used to separate the items in the list.

In conclusion, periods are an essential part of punctuation in writing. They indicate the end of a sentence, separate independent clauses, indicate abbreviations, and separate items in a list. Proper usage of periods can help convey meaning and clarity in your writing.

Question and Exclamation Marks

In this section, we will discuss the proper usage of question and exclamation marks in your writing. These punctuation marks are used to convey emotions, emphasis, and questions in your sentences. Let’s dive in and explore the rules for using these marks correctly.

The question mark is used to indicate a direct question or inquiry in your sentence. It is placed at the end of the sentence and replaces the period. Here are some examples:

• What time is the meeting?
• Have you seen my keys?
• Are you coming to the party tonight?

When using a question mark, it is important to note that it should not be used in indirect questions or statements that are not questions. For example:

• He asked if you could come to the party? (Incorrect)
• He asked if you could come to the party. (Correct)

Exclamation Mark

The exclamation mark is used to indicate strong emotions such as surprise, excitement, or emphasis in your sentence. It is placed at the end of the sentence and replaces the period. Here are some examples:

• I can’t believe we won the game!
• What a beautiful day!
• Get out of here!

When using an exclamation mark, it is important to note that it should not be overused or used inappropriately. Using too many exclamation marks can make your writing appear unprofessional and may diminish the effect of the mark. It is also important to avoid using exclamation marks in formal writing such as academic papers or business reports.

Using Both Marks

In some cases, a sentence may require both a question and an exclamation mark. This is known as an interrobang and is represented by ?! or !?. Here are some examples:

• What do you mean you lost the keys?!
• Can you believe we got the job!?

When using an interrobang, it is important to note that it should be used sparingly and only in informal writing or dialogue. It is not appropriate for formal writing.

In conclusion, question and exclamation marks are important punctuation marks that can add emotion and emphasis to your writing. By following these rules, you can ensure that your writing is clear, concise, and professional.

Colons and Semicolons

If you want to make your writing more sophisticated, you need to know how to use colons and semicolons. These two punctuation marks are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct functions.

Using Colons

A colon is used to introduce a list, an explanation, or a quotation. It can also be used to introduce a sentence that explains or summarizes the sentence that precedes it. Here are some examples:

• My favorite fruits are: apples, bananas, and oranges.
• The reason why I’m late is simple: my car broke down.
• She said something that surprised me: “I’m moving to Australia.”

Note that the sentence after the colon is often capitalized, especially if it’s a complete sentence.

Semicolons in Complex Sentences

A semicolon is used to connect two independent clauses that are closely related in meaning. It can also be used to separate items in a list when the items themselves contain commas. Here are some examples:

• I have a big test tomorrow; I need to study tonight.
• The concert was amazing; the music, the lights, and the atmosphere were unforgettable.
• The company is expanding its operations to Europe; it’s hiring more staff and opening new offices.

Note that a semicolon is not used to connect an independent clause and a dependent clause. Use a comma and a coordinating conjunction (such as “and,” “but,” “or,” “for,” “nor,” or “so”) instead.

In summary, colons and semicolons are useful punctuation marks that can make your writing more sophisticated. Use them correctly and sparingly, and your writing will be clearer and more effective.

Quotation Marks and Apostrophes

When it comes to punctuation, quotation marks and apostrophes are two of the most commonly used symbols. They are used to indicate direct speech, quotes, and to show possession. Here, we’ll discuss the rules and proper usage of these two important punctuation marks.

Quotation Marks

Quotation marks are used to indicate direct speech or a quote from a text. They can also be used to indicate the title of a book, song, or movie. Here are a few important rules to keep in mind when using quotation marks:

• Use double quotation marks (” “) to indicate direct speech or a quote.
• Use single quotation marks (‘ ‘) to indicate a quote within a quote.
• Always place punctuation marks inside the quotation marks.
• Capitalize the first letter of the first word in a quote if it’s a complete sentence.

Here are a few examples to help illustrate the proper use of quotation marks:

• “I can’t believe you said that,” she said.
• He asked, “Can you pass me the salt?”
• She said, “I love the song ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ by Queen.”

Apostrophes

Apostrophes are used to indicate possession or to show that letters or numbers have been omitted. Here are a few important rules to keep in mind when using apostrophes:

• Use an apostrophe to show possession. For singular nouns, add an apostrophe and an “s”. For plural nouns, add only an apostrophe.
• Use an apostrophe to show that letters or numbers have been omitted in a contraction.

Here are a few examples to help illustrate the proper use of apostrophes:

• The dog’s bone was buried in the backyard.
• The Smiths’ house is located on Main Street.
• Can’t (short for “cannot”) you see what I mean?

In conclusion, proper usage of quotation marks and apostrophes is essential to effective communication. By following these rules, you can ensure that your writing is clear and easy to understand.

Parentheses, Brackets, and Ellipses

When it comes to punctuation, parentheses, brackets, and ellipses are three commonly used marks that can help clarify and enhance your writing. In this section, we’ll explore the uses of each of these marks and provide some examples to help you understand how to use them effectively.

Parentheses

Parentheses are used to enclose information that is not essential to the main point of the sentence. This information can be used to clarify or provide additional details. Here are some examples:

• The concert (which was sold out) was amazing.
• I’m going to the store (even though it’s raining outside).
• The book (which I read last night) was really good.

Note that if the information in parentheses is a complete sentence, the period goes outside the closing parenthesis. If it is not a complete sentence, the period goes inside the closing parenthesis.

Brackets are used to enclose information that has been added to a direct quote. This information can be used to clarify or provide additional context. Here are some examples:

• “I [would] love to go to the beach,” she said.
• “The [new] policy will take effect next week,” the manager announced.
• “I’m sorry, but [the event] has been cancelled,” the organizer explained.

Note that the information in brackets must be added to the quote to make it grammatically correct. If the information is not added, the quote may be incorrect or misleading.

Ellipses are used to indicate that something has been omitted from a quote or to indicate a pause or hesitation in speech. Here are some examples:

• “To be or not to be, that is the question […] Whether ’tis nobler in the mind to suffer…”
• “I’m not sure if I should…well, you know…”
• “I can’t believe you…never mind.”

Note that when using ellipses to indicate an omission, you should be careful not to change the meaning of the original quote. If you need to add words to clarify the meaning, use brackets instead.

In conclusion, parentheses, brackets, and ellipses are all useful punctuation marks that can help you clarify and enhance your writing. By using them effectively, you can make your writing more engaging and easier to understand.

Hyphens, Dashes, and Slashes

Punctuation marks such as hyphens, dashes, and slashes are used to convey meaning and clarity in writing. Understanding when and how to use them correctly can greatly enhance the readability of your text. In this section, we will discuss the proper usage of hyphens, dashes, and slashes.

Hyphens in Compound Words

Hyphens are used to join words together to form a compound word. This is often done to clarify the meaning of a phrase or to create a new word altogether. For example, “self-esteem” and “well-being” are both compound words that use hyphens.

It is important to note that not all compound words require a hyphen. Generally, compound words that are used frequently and have become widely accepted do not need a hyphen. For example, “lifestyle” and “website” are both compound words that do not require a hyphen.

Dashes in Writing

Dashes are used to indicate a break in thought or to set off a phrase for emphasis. There are two types of dashes: en dashes and em dashes. An en dash is used to indicate a range, such as “pages 5–10”. An em dash is used to indicate a break in thought, such as “I have three sisters—Mary, Jane, and Sarah.”

It is important to note that dashes should not be overused in writing. They are best used sparingly to add emphasis or clarity to a sentence.

Using Slashes

Slashes are used to indicate a choice or to separate items in a list. For example, “and/or” and “and/or/not” both use slashes to indicate a choice. In a list, slashes can be used to separate items, such as “red/green/blue.”

It is important to note that slashes should be used sparingly in formal writing. They are best used in informal writing or when indicating a choice or list.

In conclusion, hyphens, dashes, and slashes are important punctuation marks that can greatly enhance the readability of your writing. By using them correctly and sparingly, you can convey meaning and clarity to your readers. Remember to use hyphens in compound words, dashes for emphasis or breaks in thought, and slashes for choices or lists.

Grammar and Punctuation in Writing

In writing, grammar and punctuation are essential components that can make or break the clarity and effectiveness of your message. Correct grammar ensures that your writing is coherent and easy to understand, while proper punctuation helps to convey your intended meaning and tone.

One of the most important aspects of grammar is the distinction between independent and dependent clauses. An independent clause is a complete sentence that can stand alone, while a dependent clause is a sentence fragment that cannot stand alone. It is important to use proper punctuation to show the relationship between these two types of clauses.

For example, consider the following sentence: “Although I was tired, I went to the store.” In this sentence, “Although I was tired” is a dependent clause, and “I went to the store” is an independent clause. The comma after “tired” indicates that the dependent clause is modifying the independent clause.

Another important aspect of grammar is the use of conjunctive adverbs, which are words that connect two independent clauses. Common conjunctive adverbs include “however,” “therefore,” and “moreover.” It is important to use proper punctuation when using conjunctive adverbs to connect independent clauses.

For example, consider the following sentence: “I love to read; however, I don’t have much time for it.” In this sentence, the semicolon indicates the separation between two independent clauses. The conjunctive adverb “however” is then followed by a comma to indicate its relationship to the independent clause that follows.

In addition to grammar, proper use of adjectives is also important in writing. Adjectives are words that describe or modify nouns, and they can help to add detail and specificity to your writing. However, it is important to use adjectives sparingly and only when they are necessary to convey your intended meaning.

For example, consider the following sentence: “The big, yellow, fluffy cat slept on the couch.” In this sentence, the adjectives “big,” “yellow,” and “fluffy” help to create a detailed image of the cat in the reader’s mind. However, if too many adjectives are used, it can make the sentence cumbersome and difficult to read.

In summary, proper grammar and punctuation are essential components of effective writing. By understanding the differences between independent and dependent clauses, using proper punctuation to connect independent clauses, and using adjectives sparingly, you can create clear, concise, and engaging writing that effectively conveys your intended message.

The Chicago Manual of Style

When it comes to punctuation rules, The Chicago Manual of Style is considered the go-to guidebook for writers, editors, and publishers. This comprehensive manual covers not only substantial publishing issues but also minuscule details about formatting and style.

The Chicago Manual of Style is widely used in the United States, especially in academic and book publishing. Its guidelines for publishing, style and usage, and citations and indexes are among the most widely accepted and respected. In fact, many universities and publishing houses require their writers to follow the guidelines laid out in this manual.

One of the most hotly debated punctuation rules covered in The Chicago Manual of Style is the Oxford comma. This comma is used before the conjunction in a list of three or more items. The manual recommends using the Oxford comma, but it also acknowledges that its use is a matter of style and preference. However, it is important to note that consistency is key, and writers should choose one style and stick to it throughout their work.

The Chicago Manual of Style also covers other important punctuation rules, such as the use of parentheses, brackets, and quotation marks. It provides guidance on how to use these marks in relation to surrounding text, as well as aesthetic considerations such as font, italics, and boldface.

To aid comprehension, The Chicago Manual of Style recommends using lowercase letters to form the plural with an apostrophe and an “s” (e.g., “two llamas” becomes “two llamas'”). However, it is important to note that this rule is not universally accepted and some writers and editors may prefer to use different rules for forming plurals.

In summary, The Chicago Manual of Style is an essential resource for anyone looking to improve their punctuation skills. Its guidelines are widely accepted and respected in the publishing industry, and its recommendations can help writers create clear and effective prose. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, The Chicago Manual of Style is a valuable tool to have in your arsenal.

Abbreviations and Numbers

When it comes to using abbreviations and numbers in your writing, there are a few key punctuation rules to keep in mind. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your writing is clear, concise, and easy to read.

Abbreviations can be a great way to save time and space in your writing, but it’s important to use them correctly. Here are a few key rules to keep in mind:

• Use periods to separate each letter in an abbreviation (e.g., U.S.A.).
• When an abbreviation ends in a period, use that period and any necessary punctuation immediately following it (e.g., Mr.).
• Do not use an apostrophe to indicate the plural of an abbreviation (e.g., CDs, not CD’s).
• Spell out an abbreviation the first time you use it in a piece of writing, followed by the abbreviation in parentheses (e.g., National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)).
• Avoid using too many abbreviations in a single piece of writing, as this can make it difficult for readers to follow.

Numbers are a crucial part of many types of writing, from scientific reports to business memos. Here are a few key rules to keep in mind when using numbers:

• Use numerals to represent numbers, rather than spelling them out (e.g., 3 instead of three).
• Use commas to separate groups of three digits in numbers with more than four digits (e.g., 10,000).
• Use a hyphen to connect numbers in a range (e.g., 10-15).
• Spell out numbers at the beginning of a sentence (e.g., Twenty-five people attended the meeting).
• Use numerals for percentages, rather than spelling them out (e.g., 25%, not twenty-five percent).

Dates are another common element in many types of writing. Here are a few key rules to keep in mind when using dates:

• Use numerals to represent dates (e.g., 07/09/2023).
• Use a comma to separate the day of the month from the year (e.g., July 9, 2023).
• Use a comma to separate the day of the week from the rest of the date (e.g., Sunday, July 9, 2023).
• When referring to a range of dates, use “to” rather than a hyphen (e.g., July 9 to July 15, 2023).

By following these rules for abbreviations, numbers, and dates, you can ensure that your writing is clear, concise, and easy to read. Remember to use these guidelines consistently throughout your writing, and avoid using too many abbreviations or numbers in a single piece of text.

Punctuation for Students and Writers

As a student or writer, you know the importance of clear and effective communication. Punctuation is a critical tool that can help you achieve this goal. By using proper punctuation, you can ensure that your writing is easy to read, understand, and trust.

Here are some essential punctuation rules that every student and writer should know:

Commas are one of the most commonly used punctuation marks, and they serve several purposes. They can be used to separate items in a list, set off introductory phrases, and separate clauses in a sentence. For example:

• I need to buy apples, bananas, and oranges at the grocery store.
• After finishing my homework, I went for a walk.
• She likes to read, but she doesn’t like to write.

Apostrophes are used to indicate possession or to show where letters have been omitted. For example:

• The dog’s tail was wagging.
• You’re going to love this book.

Quotation marks are used to enclose direct speech or a quote from a text. For example:

• “I can’t believe you did that,” she said.
• The article stated, “The experiment was a success.”

Colons are used to introduce a list or to separate two independent clauses when the second clause explains or elaborates on the first. Semicolons are used to separate two independent clauses that are closely related. For example:

• There are three things I need from the store: milk, bread, and eggs.
• She loves to read; however, she doesn’t have much time for it.

Hyphens and Dashes

Hyphens are used to join words together to create a compound word, while dashes are used to set off a phrase or clause. For example:

• He is a well-known author.
• She was the first – and only – person to finish the race.

In conclusion, mastering punctuation is essential for students and writers alike. By following these basic rules, you can improve the clarity and effectiveness of your writing, making it easier for your readers to understand and trust your message.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the 5 rules of punctuation.

There are no specific “5 rules of punctuation,” but there are some general principles that guide the use of punctuation marks. These include using punctuation to indicate the end of a sentence, to separate items in a list, to show emphasis, and to clarify meaning.

What are the 14 types of punctuation rules?

There are 14 punctuation marks in English grammar. These include the period, comma, question mark, exclamation point, colon, semicolon, hyphen, dash, parentheses, brackets, braces, apostrophe, quotation marks, and ellipsis.

What are the rules on punctuation marks?

Each punctuation mark has its own set of rules for usage. For example, the period is used to indicate the end of a sentence, while the comma is used to separate items in a list. The question mark is used to indicate a direct question, while the exclamation point is used to indicate strong emotion.

How do I use punctuation correctly?

To use punctuation correctly, you need to understand the rules for each punctuation mark and when to use them. You also need to be able to recognize when a sentence needs punctuation to clarify its meaning or to make it easier to read.

What are the most important punctuation rules?

Some of the most important punctuation rules include using the period to end a sentence, using the comma to separate items in a list, and using quotation marks to indicate direct speech. It’s also important to use punctuation to indicate emphasis and to clarify meaning.

What is punctuation and what are examples of it?

Punctuation is a set of symbols used to clarify the meaning of sentences and written elements. Examples of punctuation include the period, which indicates the end of a sentence, and the comma, which separates items in a list. Other examples include the question mark, exclamation point, colon, semicolon, hyphen, dash, parentheses, brackets, braces, apostrophe, quotation marks, and ellipsis.

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