How To Use English Punctuation

If you would like to write a first-rate report for school, or have to create an outstanding business document, you will need a proper grasp of punctuation. Here are some punctuation marks and some tips on how to use them.

The Period, Exclamation Mark, and Question Mark

A period or full stop is one of the most common punctuation marks and shows the end of your statement. Question marks and exclamation points are also used at the end of a statement, and imply an interrogatory sentence and emphasizes a statement, respectively.

The Comma, Colon, and Semicolon

A comma denotes a break or pause in a statement, with appositives which add data for the subject, for indicating a series of items, and for separating introductory phrases, adjectives, and independent clauses. Commas are also employed to make a direct address, utilized after a name, and separate direct quotes.

Semicolons detach two independent but related clauses. Where two phrases are too wordy or complex a period is best used rather than a semicolon. A semicolon can also be employed to divide a series of items if they are complex, including clauses that have commas. Colons have numerous uses, such as introducing a list of items. Avoid employing a colon before items in a regular series.

Hyphen vs. Dash

The hyphen was typically used in the era of typewriters, when a long word reached the margin of the page. Today hyphens are still used to append prefixes to words, however, not all words with prefixes call for this punctuation mark. Compound words which are made from two separate words need a hyphen, as do numbers that are written as words. Use hyphens if the number is below one hundred. For numbers larger than one hundred, use a hyphen between all words in the number when they are used as adjectives.

The dash is used when a short interruption materializes in a sentence, for an unexpected change in idea, additional comments, or an emphatic qualification. Dashes may also be used to add extra clarification, such as with a statement inside parenthesis. Remember that the sentence must still flow naturally, and a disjointed statement probably needs revision in regards to its use of punctuation.

Double and Single Quotation Marks

The double quote comprises a direct quote from any literature, a song, or a person. The apostrophe or single quote can be used before the letter S to show possession. With a singular noun, and after the letter for a plural noun. A contraction of two words can also be created through the use of an apostrophe. Apostrophes can be used inside double quotes to denote a quotation by another or a quote inside a quote.

The correct use of punctuation marks can help avoid miscommunication, and allow you to clearly and precisely express your ideas through the written word.