Punctuation Review Rules of Grammar. Rules for Periods Use a period at the end of a complete sentence. Use a period at the end of a complete sentence

Punctuation ReviewPunctuation Review

Rules of GrammarRules of Grammar

Rules for PeriodsRules for Periods

Use a period at the end of a Use a period at the end of a complete sentence.complete sentence.

Use periods (decimal points) Use periods (decimal points) with money and percentages.with money and percentages.• $2.13 3.25%$2.13 3.25%

Use periods after initialsUse periods after initials• George W. Bush David A. PaapGeorge W. Bush David A. Paap


Use periods in some Use periods in some abbreviations:abbreviations:• Months:Months: Jan. Feb. Jan. Feb. • Days:Days: Mon. Tues.Mon. Tues.• Titles:Titles: Gov.Gov. Sen. Dr. Mr. M.D. Sen. Dr. Mr. M.D.• Addresses:Addresses: Ave. St.Ave. St. Rd. Rd.• Measurements: Measurements: lb. oz. hr. min.lb. oz. hr. min.• Countries: Countries: U.S. U.K.U.S. U.K.

When all the letters are capital letters, When all the letters are capital letters, periods are usually not used: periods are usually not used: CIA YMCACIA YMCA


Don’t use a period at the end of Don’t use a period at the end of a sentence that already ends a sentence that already ends with an abbreviation.with an abbreviation.• Bob woke up at 7 A.M.Bob woke up at 7 A.M.

(Using question marks and exclamation (Using question marks and exclamation are okay after an abbreviation)are okay after an abbreviation)

• Bob woke up at 7 A.M.!Bob woke up at 7 A.M.!• Bob woke up at 7 A.M.?Bob woke up at 7 A.M.?

Rules for Question MarksRules for Question Marks

Use a question mark after a Use a question mark after a question.question.• This is not difficult, is it?This is not difficult, is it?

Use a question mark to indicate Use a question mark to indicate uncertainty or doubt.uncertainty or doubt.• The author of this book lived from The author of this book lived from

1810(?) to 1895.1810(?) to 1895. (This shows that you are not positive the (This shows that you are not positive the

exact date.)exact date.)

Rules for Question MarksRules for Question Marks

In a polite request (when no In a polite request (when no answer is required), the question answer is required), the question mark is often omitted even mark is often omitted even though the sentence is phrased though the sentence is phrased like a question. Use it or don’t like a question. Use it or don’t use it – it is your choice.use it – it is your choice.• Would you please bring us the remote?Would you please bring us the remote?• Would you please bring us the remote.Would you please bring us the remote.

Both examples are correctBoth examples are correct

Rules for Exclamation PointsRules for Exclamation Points Use an exclamation point after exclamations Use an exclamation point after exclamations

to show:to show:• Delight: Delight: Wow! Nice catch!Wow! Nice catch!• Urgency: Urgency: Please help me!Please help me!• Anger: Anger: Drop dead!Drop dead!• Surprise: Surprise: I can’t believe it’s you!I can’t believe it’s you!• Distress: Distress: Oh, no! This can’t be right!Oh, no! This can’t be right!• Excitement: Excitement: I got an A!I got an A!• Intensity: Intensity: I love you!I love you!• Loud noises: Loud noises: Crash! Bang!Crash! Bang!• Strong Commands: Strong Commands: Stop! Don’t move!Stop! Don’t move!

Rules for Exclamation PointsRules for Exclamation Points

Is it a question or an Is it a question or an exclamation? Sometimes a exclamation? Sometimes a sentence can go either way.sentence can go either way.• How could you do that?How could you do that?• How could you do that!How could you do that!

It depends on what you are trying to convey It depends on what you are trying to convey to the reader.to the reader.

Rules for Exclamation PointsRules for Exclamation Points

Some people use exclamation points all the Some people use exclamation points all the time! It makes their writing look hyper time! It makes their writing look hyper active! It’s even worse to use lots of active! It’s even worse to use lots of exclamations!! - oh, no, not the double exclamations!! - oh, no, not the double exclamations!!exclamations!!

Never use double exclamation points Never use double exclamation points in formal writing. In fact, don’t use in formal writing. In fact, don’t use many exclamation points at all.many exclamation points at all.

Rules for CommasRules for Commas

Use a comma before a Use a comma before a coordinating conjunction that coordinating conjunction that introduces an independent introduces an independent clause (that’s the clause that can clause (that’s the clause that can stand alone).stand alone).• Coordinating conjunctions are:Coordinating conjunctions are:

and, but, for, or, so, yet, norand, but, for, or, so, yet, nor

For example, combining two For example, combining two independent clauses with a conjunction independent clauses with a conjunction usually needs a comma.usually needs a comma.


Independent clause combinations:Independent clause combinations:• I hurried to the store. I bought a bag of I hurried to the store. I bought a bag of

Doritos.Doritos.• I hurried to the store, and I bought a bag of I hurried to the store, and I bought a bag of

Doritos.Doritos.

Notice that there are two independent clauses Notice that there are two independent clauses being connected. A dependent and an being connected. A dependent and an independent clause does not use a comma.independent clause does not use a comma.

• I hurried and bought a bag of Doritos.I hurried and bought a bag of Doritos. I hurried (independent clause) bought a bag of I hurried (independent clause) bought a bag of

Doritos (dependent clause).Doritos (dependent clause).


When you have two When you have two short short independent clauses independent clauses andand you are you are using a conjunction, you using a conjunction, you maymay use use a comma or not.a comma or not.• Kate slept late, but Jen got up early.Kate slept late, but Jen got up early.• Kate slept late but Jen got up early.Kate slept late but Jen got up early.


Use a comma after most Use a comma after most introductory phrases and introductory phrases and clauses.clauses.

• Since I forgot my combination, I could Since I forgot my combination, I could not open my locker.not open my locker.

Since I forgotSince I forgot is an introductory clause andis an introductory clause and I could not open my lockerI could not open my locker is an independent is an independent clause.clause.


Introductory clause examples:Introductory clause examples:• In spite of the fact that all the evidence In spite of the fact that all the evidence

supported his guilt, he plead innocent.supported his guilt, he plead innocent.• Being one who believes in punctuality, I am Being one who believes in punctuality, I am

never late to an appointment.never late to an appointment.

Short introductory clauses don’t Short introductory clauses don’t necessarily have to have a comma.necessarily have to have a comma.• In May, I will be graduating.In May, I will be graduating.• In May I will be graduating.In May I will be graduating.

Both sentences are grammatically correct.Both sentences are grammatically correct.


Be careful when using Be careful when using introductory clauses and introductory clauses and phrases. Don’t confuse the phrases. Don’t confuse the reader by forgetting an reader by forgetting an important comma.important comma.• After eating my cat hiccups.After eating my cat hiccups.

How does your cat taste?How does your cat taste?

• After eating, my cat hiccups.After eating, my cat hiccups. After eatingAfter eating is the introductory clause and is the introductory clause and

my cat hiccups my cat hiccups is the independent clause.is the independent clause.


Use commas in a list.Use commas in a list.• He studied French, Spanish, and He studied French, Spanish, and

Russian.Russian.• Please buy milk, bread, peanut butter, Please buy milk, bread, peanut butter,

and eggs from the store.and eggs from the store.• When I go on vacation, I like playing When I go on vacation, I like playing

golf, skiing, and snorkeling.golf, skiing, and snorkeling.• He had to hike down the hill, fetch the He had to hike down the hill, fetch the

pail of water, and then hike back home.pail of water, and then hike back home.


Use a comma with cities and Use a comma with cities and states. Always separate the city states. Always separate the city from the state and the state from the state and the state from everything else.from everything else.• My wife is in St. Cloud, Minnesota, My wife is in St. Cloud, Minnesota,

visiting her grandmother.visiting her grandmother.• We went to Omaha, Nebraska, for We went to Omaha, Nebraska, for

Thanksgiving.Thanksgiving.


Use commas with addresses. Use commas with addresses. Notice there is no comma between Notice there is no comma between the state and the zip code.the state and the zip code.• She lives at 2055 E. Caballero, San She lives at 2055 E. Caballero, San

Diego, California 90214.Diego, California 90214.


Use commas in numbers over Use commas in numbers over 999.999.• 2,1402,140• 1,214,0001,214,000• 1,214,435,667,2101,214,435,667,210


Use commas with direct Use commas with direct quotations (what someone says).quotations (what someone says).• ““I saw Foo Fighters,” yelled John, “last I saw Foo Fighters,” yelled John, “last

night at the amphitheater!”night at the amphitheater!”• ““I’m not afraid of the dark,” whispered I’m not afraid of the dark,” whispered

Bobby, “I’m almost eight years old.”Bobby, “I’m almost eight years old.”• Jane cried, “I lost my homework for Jane cried, “I lost my homework for

Geometry!”Geometry!”


Use commas when speaking Use commas when speaking directly to someone (this is directly to someone (this is called a direct address).called a direct address).• Keith, it is time to go.Keith, it is time to go.• I’ve told you three times, boys and girls, I’ve told you three times, boys and girls,

to do your homework.to do your homework.• If you don’t believe me, Janet, go ask If you don’t believe me, Janet, go ask

Mrs. Turner.Mrs. Turner.


Use commas with dates.Use commas with dates.Note: Separate the day from the year and the Note: Separate the day from the year and the year from the rest of the sentence.year from the rest of the sentence.

• Madalyn was born on November 1Madalyn was born on November 1stst, , 2005, at 8:48 A.M.2005, at 8:48 A.M.

• On March 22On March 22ndnd, 2008, the new tax laws , 2008, the new tax laws will go into effect.will go into effect.

• We will move on January 14We will move on January 14thth, 2006, to , 2006, to our new house.our new house.


Use a comma before and/or after an Use a comma before and/or after an interjection.interjection.Interjections are the only words that add emotion to the Interjections are the only words that add emotion to the writing and can be eliminated completely without changing writing and can be eliminated completely without changing the meaning of the sentence.the meaning of the sentence.

• Wow, what a beautiful sunset.Wow, what a beautiful sunset.• No, I don’t really want to see that movie.No, I don’t really want to see that movie.• I told Ryan that, yes, I would go to the dance I told Ryan that, yes, I would go to the dance

with him.with him.• I don’t like salad, heck, I don’t like any I don’t like salad, heck, I don’t like any

vegetables. vegetables.


Use commas between consecutive Use commas between consecutive adjectives (two or more in a row) adjectives (two or more in a row) describing the same noun.describing the same noun.• It was a cold, dark, dreary night.It was a cold, dark, dreary night.

Use a comma whenever the word Use a comma whenever the word andand would sound would sound right between the adjectives.right between the adjectives.

• It was a cold September night.It was a cold September night. Cold and SeptemberCold and September describe the same noun, but it describe the same noun, but it

wouldn’t sound right to say, “cold and September wouldn’t sound right to say, “cold and September night.”night.”


Use commas after greetings and Use commas after greetings and before closing in friendly letters.before closing in friendly letters.GreetingsGreetings• Dear Shannon,Dear Shannon,• Hello Sweetheart,Hello Sweetheart,

ClosingsClosings• Sincerely,Sincerely,• Love,Love,


Use a comma to show that two Use a comma to show that two parts of a sentence are being parts of a sentence are being contrasted.contrasted.• I’m going out with Ken, not Ron.I’m going out with Ken, not Ron.• It’s a book, not a movie.It’s a book, not a movie.• I really wanted the Xbox, not the I really wanted the Xbox, not the

Playstation.Playstation.


Use commas with titles when Use commas with titles when they come after (but not before) they come after (but not before) the person’s name.the person’s name.• Steven Miller, Ph.D., is the pediatric Steven Miller, Ph.D., is the pediatric

doctor on call tonight.doctor on call tonight.• Dr. Miller is the pediatric doctor on call Dr. Miller is the pediatric doctor on call

tonight.tonight.


Use commas before and after Use commas before and after appositives (an appositive appositives (an appositive explains who or what the noun explains who or what the noun is).is).• Our Principal, Mrs. Griffin, gave a speech Our Principal, Mrs. Griffin, gave a speech

at the assembly.at the assembly.• Katie Stevens, the best ballerina in the Katie Stevens, the best ballerina in the

performance, shone as the star of the performance, shone as the star of the evening.evening.

Rules for ColonsRules for Colons

Use a colon when you want to say Use a colon when you want to say “here comes an example” or “here’s “here comes an example” or “here’s what I’m talking about.”what I’m talking about.”• There’s only one sport for me: alligator There’s only one sport for me: alligator

wrestling.wrestling.• This sentence is grammatically correct: I This sentence is grammatically correct: I

wonder if wolves actually wolf down their wonder if wolves actually wolf down their pizzas the way I wolf down mine.pizzas the way I wolf down mine.

Colons are used to give examples that directly relate to Colons are used to give examples that directly relate to the sentence.the sentence.


Use a colon before some lists.Use a colon before some lists.• A colon is needed before these phrases: A colon is needed before these phrases:

these are, there are, the following, as these are, there are, the following, as follows, such as, or these things.follows, such as, or these things.

• My favorite sports are the following: My favorite sports are the following: baseball, basketball, soccer, football, baseball, basketball, soccer, football, and every other game that’s played with and every other game that’s played with a ball.a ball.


Don’t use a colon if a list comes right Don’t use a colon if a list comes right after a verb.after a verb.• The ingredients are: flour, eggs, sugar, and The ingredients are: flour, eggs, sugar, and

milk.milk. (THIS SENTENCE IS WRONG.)(THIS SENTENCE IS WRONG.)

• The ingredients are flour, eggs, sugar, and The ingredients are flour, eggs, sugar, and milk. milk. (THIS SENTENCE IS CORRECT.)(THIS SENTENCE IS CORRECT.)

• These are the ingredients: flour, eggs, sugar, These are the ingredients: flour, eggs, sugar, and milk. and milk. (THIS SENTENCE IS CORRECT.)(THIS SENTENCE IS CORRECT.)


Don’t use a colon after a preposition.Don’t use a colon after a preposition.• I want to travel to: New York, San Francisco, I want to travel to: New York, San Francisco,

Atlanta, and Montreal. Atlanta, and Montreal. (Incorrect)(Incorrect)• I want to travel to New York, San Francisco, I want to travel to New York, San Francisco,

Atlanta, and Montreal.Atlanta, and Montreal.

(Correct)(Correct)• I want to travel to the following cities: New I want to travel to the following cities: New

York, San Francisco, Atlanta, and Montreal.York, San Francisco, Atlanta, and Montreal.

(Correct)(Correct)


Use a colon before subtitles of Use a colon before subtitles of books, articles, chapters, etc.books, articles, chapters, etc.• The title of the book is Bill Gates: Man of The title of the book is Bill Gates: Man of

the Year.the Year.

Use a colon with expressions of Use a colon with expressions of time.time.• It’s 12:15 P.M.It’s 12:15 P.M.• His record for the mile is 4:06:27.His record for the mile is 4:06:27.


Use a colon in the greeting part of a Use a colon in the greeting part of a formal letter or business letter.formal letter or business letter.• To Whom It May Concern:To Whom It May Concern:• Dear Senator McCain:Dear Senator McCain:

Use a colon in literary references Use a colon in literary references between volume and page or between between volume and page or between chapter and verse.chapter and verse.• John 3:16 John 3:16 [[the book of John, chapter 3, verse 16]the book of John, chapter 3, verse 16]

• Encyclopedia Brittanica IV:425 Encyclopedia Brittanica IV:425 [volume 4, page [volume 4, page 425]425]


Use a colon with ratios.Use a colon with ratios.• The bill passed with a 3:1 vote.The bill passed with a 3:1 vote.

Use colons to indicate dialogue Use colons to indicate dialogue when you’re writing a play or when you’re writing a play or script.script.Henry: I can’t believe it’s not butter.Henry: I can’t believe it’s not butter.Janet: It has less fat than sour cream.Janet: It has less fat than sour cream.Henry: But it taste so good.Henry: But it taste so good.


Use a colon before a long, formal Use a colon before a long, formal quotation.quotation.

Governor Smith stated to the press: “I Governor Smith stated to the press: “I think that children should study grammar think that children should study grammar for at least six hours a day. Learning to for at least six hours a day. Learning to speak and write correctly is far more speak and write correctly is far more important than anything else – including important than anything else – including eating. In fact, I believe that eating is a eating. In fact, I believe that eating is a complete waste of valuable time.” Then complete waste of valuable time.” Then he said, “April Fools!”he said, “April Fools!”


Use a colon after words such as Use a colon after words such as caution, wanted, or note.caution, wanted, or note.• Caution: wet floor.Caution: wet floor.• Wanted: interior designer specializing in Wanted: interior designer specializing in

abstract art.abstract art.• Note: Colons have specific uses.Note: Colons have specific uses.


Capitalize the first word after a Capitalize the first word after a colon colon ifif it begins a complete it begins a complete sentence – and if you want to. sentence – and if you want to. Either way is okay as long as it is Either way is okay as long as it is a complete sentence.a complete sentence.• Caution: There are workers present.Caution: There are workers present.• Caution: there are workers present.Caution: there are workers present.

Rules for SemicolonsRules for Semicolons

• A semicolon is stronger than a comma but A semicolon is stronger than a comma but slightly weaker than a period.slightly weaker than a period.

Use a semicolon between two Use a semicolon between two sentences that are very closely sentences that are very closely related.related.• My family is Jewish. We celebrate Chanukah My family is Jewish. We celebrate Chanukah

but not Christmas.but not Christmas.• My family is Jewish; we celebrate Chanukah but My family is Jewish; we celebrate Chanukah but

not Christmas.not Christmas.(Being Jewish and celebrating Chanukah are very closely (Being Jewish and celebrating Chanukah are very closely related, and that relationship is emphasized by putting related, and that relationship is emphasized by putting them in the same sentence.)them in the same sentence.)


Only use a semicolon between Only use a semicolon between two complete sentences that are two complete sentences that are closely related.closely related.• My family is Jewish; not Christian.My family is Jewish; not Christian.

(This sentence is incorrect because (This sentence is incorrect because not not ChristianChristian is a fragment, not a complete is a fragment, not a complete sentence.)sentence.)

• My family is Jewish, not Christian.My family is Jewish, not Christian.


Use a semicolon before Use a semicolon before howeverhowever and and similar words (these words are called similar words (these words are called conjunctive adverbs) that show a conjunctive adverbs) that show a relationship between two complete relationship between two complete sentences.sentences.• I bet you thought you wouldn’t have to learn I bet you thought you wouldn’t have to learn

another semicolon rule; however, you were another semicolon rule; however, you were wrong.wrong.

• I bet you thought you wouldn’t have to learn I bet you thought you wouldn’t have to learn another semicolon rule. However, you were another semicolon rule. However, you were wrong.wrong.


Use semicolons between clauses Use semicolons between clauses or phrases that contain a lot of or phrases that contain a lot of commas.commas.• Wesley likes books about baseball, Wesley likes books about baseball,

biplanes, and bagels, Brian likes books biplanes, and bagels, Brian likes books about antique cars, blimps, and rare about antique cars, blimps, and rare fish, and Tori likes books about fish, and Tori likes books about racehorses, dolls, and military jets.racehorses, dolls, and military jets.

This sentence is very confusing and This sentence is very confusing and sounds choppy.sounds choppy.


• Wesley likes books about baseball, Wesley likes books about baseball, biplanes, and bagels; Brian likes books biplanes, and bagels; Brian likes books about antique cars, blimps, and rare about antique cars, blimps, and rare fish; and Tori likes books about fish; and Tori likes books about racehorses, dolls, and military jets.racehorses, dolls, and military jets.

The semicolons in this sentence The semicolons in this sentence helps the reader to understand helps the reader to understand what ideas go together.what ideas go together.


Use semicolons in lists that Use semicolons in lists that contain commas as part of the contain commas as part of the listed material.listed material.• I want to visit Atlanta, Georgia; San I want to visit Atlanta, Georgia; San

Diego, California; Washington, D.C.; and Diego, California; Washington, D.C.; and Denver, Colorado.Denver, Colorado.

Rules for ParenthesesRules for Parentheses

Use parentheses to set off Use parentheses to set off parenthetical expressions from the parenthetical expressions from the main part of the sentence.main part of the sentence.• A parenthetical expression is a “by-the-way” A parenthetical expression is a “by-the-way”

information (inserted in the middle of a information (inserted in the middle of a sentence, like this) that isn’t absolutely sentence, like this) that isn’t absolutely necessary.necessary.

• Parenthetical expressions can include: Parenthetical expressions can include: explanations, translations, clarifications, explanations, translations, clarifications, feelings, jokes or puns, opinions, or lists.feelings, jokes or puns, opinions, or lists.

Rules for ParenthesesRules for Parentheses Examples of parenthetical expressions:Examples of parenthetical expressions:

• The academic year (this year that’s August 20-June 13) The academic year (this year that’s August 20-June 13) includes 180 school days.includes 180 school days.

• I paid 40 German marks (about $25) for dinner.I paid 40 German marks (about $25) for dinner.• The town where I live (Phoenix) is in the central part of The town where I live (Phoenix) is in the central part of

Arizona.Arizona.• School is canceled (yippee!) today.School is canceled (yippee!) today.• We’re having chocolate mousse (no, not chocolate We’re having chocolate mousse (no, not chocolate

moose) for dessert.moose) for dessert.• We’re all out (and I hope we’ll remain out) of livermush.We’re all out (and I hope we’ll remain out) of livermush.• Some of my cousins (Bill, Kristen, David, Robin, Melissa, Some of my cousins (Bill, Kristen, David, Robin, Melissa,

and Kacey) were at my party. and Kacey) were at my party.

Rules for ParenthesesRules for Parentheses Don’t over use parentheses by Don’t over use parentheses by

including everything but the kitchen including everything but the kitchen sink!sink!• My next-door neighbor (her name is Tori, just My next-door neighbor (her name is Tori, just

like my cousin) bought a new car (I think it’s a like my cousin) bought a new car (I think it’s a Mazda, but I’m not sure; I like Mazdas) last Mazda, but I’m not sure; I like Mazdas) last week (on Friday, the day right after my week (on Friday, the day right after my birthday, in fact) and took me for a ride to birthday, in fact) and took me for a ride to Erica’s house (she was getting ready for her Erica’s house (she was getting ready for her trip to California) right after she got home (she trip to California) right after she got home (she had had a long day at work) with it (the car, I had had a long day at work) with it (the car, I mean-not the long day at work!).mean-not the long day at work!).

THIS IS A HORRIBLE SENTENCE!THIS IS A HORRIBLE SENTENCE!


Punctuating parentheses can be Punctuating parentheses can be difficult. Pay attention to difficult. Pay attention to punctuation. Rule of thumb, punctuation. Rule of thumb, punctuate the sentence just like punctuate the sentence just like you would without parentheses you would without parentheses and punctuate the parentheses and punctuate the parentheses without the sentence – then without the sentence – then insert the parentheses into the insert the parentheses into the sentence.sentence.


Examples of punctuating parentheses:Examples of punctuating parentheses:• When I’m hungry (like now), all I can think When I’m hungry (like now), all I can think

about is food.about is food.• I took my girlfriend out to dinner (if you can call I took my girlfriend out to dinner (if you can call

splitting a hot dog dinner).splitting a hot dog dinner).• I’m angry (really angry!) about you going to the I’m angry (really angry!) about you going to the

movie without me.movie without me.• What a scary movie (What a scary movie (SawSaw)!)!• I’m sad (that doesn’t surprise you, does it?) I’m sad (that doesn’t surprise you, does it?)

about you going to the movie without me.about you going to the movie without me.• Did you enjoy the movie (did you stay awake Did you enjoy the movie (did you stay awake

through it?)?through it?)?

Rules for BracketsRules for Brackets

Use brackets to insert one Use brackets to insert one parenthetical comment inside parenthetical comment inside another parenthetical comment.another parenthetical comment.

It is usually better, however, to rewrite It is usually better, however, to rewrite sentences with too many parenthetical sentences with too many parenthetical comments.comments.• My new mountain bike (which cost me $500 My new mountain bike (which cost me $500

[my entire savings!]) weighs only 23 pounds.[my entire savings!]) weighs only 23 pounds.


Use brackets to insert Use brackets to insert explanations or instructions that explanations or instructions that are not actually part of the are not actually part of the sentence.sentence.• The correct way to write the sentence is: The correct way to write the sentence is:

Each [singular subject] of the boys is Each [singular subject] of the boys is [singular verb] here.[singular verb] here.


Use brackets to insert your own Use brackets to insert your own editorial comments into quoted editorial comments into quoted material.material.

The brackets say “these are my words, not The brackets say “these are my words, not the quoted person’s words.”the quoted person’s words.”

• Mike said, “We all want Z-man [Joshua Mike said, “We all want Z-man [Joshua Zinn] to pitch for our team.”Zinn] to pitch for our team.”

• The young man said, “I was born in The young man said, “I was born in 1930 [?] in Ohio.”1930 [?] in Ohio.”

Rules for DashesRules for Dashes

Use a dash to link two parts of a Use a dash to link two parts of a sentence.sentence.• Always hook your seatbelt – it’s the law.Always hook your seatbelt – it’s the law.

• I gave you my last $20, so don’t waste I gave you my last $20, so don’t waste it. it. (using a comma works, but is not as strong as a (using a comma works, but is not as strong as a dash.)dash.)

• I gave you my last $20 – so don’t waste I gave you my last $20 – so don’t waste it.it.


Use dashes to emphasize by-the-Use dashes to emphasize by-the-way, parenthetical expressions.way, parenthetical expressions.• My grandmother bought me a puppy – My grandmother bought me a puppy –

an adorable little bulldog! – for my an adorable little bulldog! – for my birthday.birthday.

• I’ve lived in Portland – the one in I’ve lived in Portland – the one in Oregon, not Maine – all my lifeOregon, not Maine – all my life


Use a dash for clarity and Use a dash for clarity and emphasis.emphasis.• Finally Robin fell exhausted into bed on Finally Robin fell exhausted into bed on

top of the cat. top of the cat. (Confusing) (Confusing)• Finally Robin fell exhausted into bed – Finally Robin fell exhausted into bed –

on top of his cat!on top of his cat!


Use a dash to set off a long Use a dash to set off a long appositive (a description of who appositive (a description of who or what the subject is) or an or what the subject is) or an appositive with lots of commas.appositive with lots of commas.• I love Beaver Creek, a small ski area in I love Beaver Creek, a small ski area in

Colorado with long, challenging runs.Colorado with long, challenging runs. This sentence is correct, but weak.This sentence is correct, but weak.

• I love Beaver Creek – a small ski area in I love Beaver Creek – a small ski area in Colorado with long, challenging runs.Colorado with long, challenging runs.


Examples:Examples:• My best friend, Mike, is here.My best friend, Mike, is here.

(Correct and effective)(Correct and effective)

• My best friends, Mike, Kevin, Brian, and My best friends, Mike, Kevin, Brian, and Paul, are here. Paul, are here.

(Confusing and cluttered)(Confusing and cluttered)

• My best friends – Mike, Kevin, Brian, and My best friends – Mike, Kevin, Brian, and Paul – are here.Paul – are here.

(Easier to understand and more effective)(Easier to understand and more effective)


Use a dash in dialogue to show Use a dash in dialogue to show hesitation or a break in the flow hesitation or a break in the flow of the sentence.of the sentence.• Parker said, “I definitely studied enough Parker said, “I definitely studied enough

for the test – or I think I studied enough for the test – or I think I studied enough – I probably studied nearly enough-well, – I probably studied nearly enough-well, I hope I studied enough.”I hope I studied enough.”


Use a dash to sum up a list or Use a dash to sum up a list or idea.idea.• Red, white, and blue – those are the Red, white, and blue – those are the

American colors.American colors.• Victory – that’s the name of the game.Victory – that’s the name of the game.

Parenthetical PhrasesParenthetical Phrases Should you use parentheses, commas, or dashes Should you use parentheses, commas, or dashes

in parenthetical phrases?in parenthetical phrases?

Think of parentheses as hiding information (de-Think of parentheses as hiding information (de-emphasizing it) while dashes highlight emphasizing it) while dashes highlight information – emphasizing it. Think of commas as information – emphasizing it. Think of commas as being matter-of-fact, neither highlighting nor being matter-of-fact, neither highlighting nor hiding information. If the parenthetical hiding information. If the parenthetical information is very closely related to the information is very closely related to the sentence, commas are usually better. If the sentence, commas are usually better. If the parenthetical information is not so closely related, parenthetical information is not so closely related, dashes and parentheses are usually better.dashes and parentheses are usually better.

Parenthetical PhrasesParenthetical Phrases

Using parenthetical phrases is a tool. It Using parenthetical phrases is a tool. It depends on what you are trying to get depends on what you are trying to get across to the reader, how do you want the across to the reader, how do you want the sentence to sound.sentence to sound.• The tennis team (especially Jim) played great.The tennis team (especially Jim) played great.• The tennis team, especially Jim, played great.The tennis team, especially Jim, played great.• The tennis team – especially Jim – played The tennis team – especially Jim – played

great.great.

Notice the different way each sentence sounds Notice the different way each sentence sounds and the tone that it creates. and the tone that it creates.

Rules for HyphensRules for Hyphens

Use hyphens in some compound Use hyphens in some compound words (two or more separate words (two or more separate words that we think of as one words that we think of as one unit).unit).Be careful – this is tricky territory! There’s no Be careful – this is tricky territory! There’s no

absolute rule for when to use one word, two absolute rule for when to use one word, two words, or a hyphen, so check your dictionary.words, or a hyphen, so check your dictionary.

• Is it cheerleader, cheer leader, or cheer-Is it cheerleader, cheer leader, or cheer-leader? leader? All are correct.All are correct.


Sometimes spelling words as one Sometimes spelling words as one word, two words, or hyphenated are word, two words, or hyphenated are all correct. Use a good dictionary. all correct. Use a good dictionary. But most importantly, be consistent; But most importantly, be consistent; if you use the spelling with (or if you use the spelling with (or without) a hyphen in the beginning, without) a hyphen in the beginning, use the same spelling throughout use the same spelling throughout your paper.your paper.


Use a hyphen with some prefixes, Use a hyphen with some prefixes, especially all-, co-, ex-, half-, great-, especially all-, co-, ex-, half-, great-, numbers, and capital letters.numbers, and capital letters.• all-knowing, all-aroundall-knowing, all-around• co-conspirator, co-authorco-conspirator, co-author• ex-husband, ex-convictex-husband, ex-convict• half-truth, half-heartedhalf-truth, half-hearted• great-grandmother, great-unclegreat-grandmother, great-uncle• 5-cent piece of candy, 40-foot tree5-cent piece of candy, 40-foot tree• T-shirt, PG-ratedT-shirt, PG-rated


Use a hyphen when a word Use a hyphen when a word would be confusing or hard to would be confusing or hard to read without it.read without it.

shelllike (3 l’s in a row - confusing)shelllike (3 l’s in a row - confusing)

• shell-likeshell-like Anne recovered from the flu and recovered Anne recovered from the flu and recovered

her living room chair (this is confusing)her living room chair (this is confusing)

• Anne recovered from the flu and Anne recovered from the flu and

re-covered her living room chair.re-covered her living room chair.


Use a hyphen with double last Use a hyphen with double last names.names.• Mary Scott-SimonsMary Scott-Simons• Jim Blake-AdamsJim Blake-Adams

Use hyphens with words that Use hyphens with words that are meant to be read as a single are meant to be read as a single unit.unit.• the Braves-Mets gamethe Braves-Mets game


Use hyphens (or slashes) with Use hyphens (or slashes) with dates.dates.• 1-12-061-12-06• 1/12/061/12/06

Use hyphens with compound Use hyphens with compound numbers from 21 to 99.numbers from 21 to 99.• twenty-one, ninety-ninetwenty-one, ninety-nine


Use hyphens with fractions Use hyphens with fractions acting as adjectives or adverbs, acting as adjectives or adverbs, but not fractions acting as but not fractions acting as nouns.nouns.• The bottle of Coke was two-thirds The bottle of Coke was two-thirds

[adverb] full.[adverb] full.• Jill drank two thirds [noun] of the bottle Jill drank two thirds [noun] of the bottle

of Coke.of Coke.


Use a hyphen with scores.Use a hyphen with scores.• We beat our arch rivals 86-78.We beat our arch rivals 86-78.

Use hyphens in compound adjectives Use hyphens in compound adjectives if they come before the noun they if they come before the noun they describe.describe.• the 15-year-old girlthe 15-year-old girl• up-to-date technologyup-to-date technology• eighth-grade studentseighth-grade students• a drive-me-completely-nuts classa drive-me-completely-nuts class


If the compound adjective comes If the compound adjective comes after the noun, don’t use after the noun, don’t use hyphens.hyphens.• The girl is 15 years old.The girl is 15 years old.• The technology is up to date.The technology is up to date.• The students are eighth graders.The students are eighth graders.• This class is going to drive me This class is going to drive me

completely nuts.completely nuts.


Use hyphens to mean Use hyphens to mean throughthrough..• Read pages 16-24.Read pages 16-24.• The baseball card store is open Monday-The baseball card store is open Monday-

Saturday.Saturday.• William Shakespeare (1564-1616) is William Shakespeare (1564-1616) is

perhaps the most famous writer of all perhaps the most famous writer of all time.time.

In formal writing, it is usually In formal writing, it is usually better to write out the word better to write out the word throughthrough..


Use hyphens to spell out words.Use hyphens to spell out words.• She said, “My name is Kacey, She said, “My name is Kacey,

K-a-c-e-y.”K-a-c-e-y.”

Use hyphens to show faltering Use hyphens to show faltering speech.speech.• Oh, no! Y-y-you t-t-took my b-b-book?Oh, no! Y-y-you t-t-took my b-b-book?


Use hyphens for hyphenating Use hyphens for hyphenating words.words.• When writing articles you sometimes When writing articles you sometimes

have limited room and therefore need to have limited room and therefore need to break words up. In formal writing, break words up. In formal writing, especially typed papers, there is no especially typed papers, there is no need to hyphenate. For handwritten need to hyphenate. For handwritten papers, use your rough draft as a guide papers, use your rough draft as a guide to know when to end your last word on to know when to end your last word on the line so you do not need to the line so you do not need to hyphenate.hyphenate.

Rules for ApostrophesRules for Apostrophes

Use apostrophes with nouns to Use apostrophes with nouns to indicate ownership.indicate ownership.• Fred’s carFred’s car• Crystal’s catCrystal’s cat• The Harrises’ carThe Harrises’ car• The Joneses’ houseThe Joneses’ house• The women’s dressesThe women’s dresses

Do not use an apostrophe with possessive Do not use an apostrophe with possessive pronouns (i.e. theirs, yours, ours, his, hers)pronouns (i.e. theirs, yours, ours, his, hers)


Use an apostrophe to indicate Use an apostrophe to indicate missing letters.missing letters.• 10 of the clack = 10 o’clock10 of the clack = 10 o’clock• 2005 = ’052005 = ’05• we were not = we weren’twe were not = we weren’t• it is = it’s it is = it’s (its = possessive pronoun)(its = possessive pronoun)• there is = there’s there is = there’s (theirs is a possessive (theirs is a possessive

pronoun, they’re = they are)pronoun, they’re = they are)• you are = you’re you are = you’re (your is a possessive (your is a possessive

pronoun)pronoun)


Do not use an apostrophe in Do not use an apostrophe in most plural words.most plural words.• Both the boy’s and the girl’s are invited Both the boy’s and the girl’s are invited

to try out for the soccer team. (WRONG)to try out for the soccer team. (WRONG)• Both the boys and the girls are invited Both the boys and the girls are invited

to try out for the soccer team.to try out for the soccer team.• I grew up in the 1980’s. (WRONG)I grew up in the 1980’s. (WRONG)• I grew up in the 1980s.I grew up in the 1980s.


With numbers other than years, With numbers other than years, either way (with or without and either way (with or without and apostrophe) is okay. Be apostrophe) is okay. Be consistent.consistent.• There are three 9’s on this page.There are three 9’s on this page.• There are three 9s on this page.There are three 9s on this page.


Some weird examples to Some weird examples to remember:remember:Words used as words:Words used as words:

• There are too many but’s in that There are too many but’s in that sentence.sentence.

AbbreviationsAbbreviations

• There are three M.D.’s here.There are three M.D.’s here.AlphabetAlphabet

• Mississippi is spelled with four s’s, four Mississippi is spelled with four s’s, four i’s, and two p’s.i’s, and two p’s.

Rules for EllipsesRules for Ellipses

Use an ellipsis to indicate some words Use an ellipsis to indicate some words have been left out of a quotation.have been left out of a quotation.• The governor said, “It is very important for our The governor said, “It is very important for our

children . . . that the school year be children . . . that the school year be extended . . . and that they go to school . . . extended . . . and that they go to school . . . 360 days a year.360 days a year.

This type of quote should be used sparingly This type of quote should be used sparingly and the omitted material should not change and the omitted material should not change the meaning of the quote.the meaning of the quote.


Use an ellipsis to indicate that Use an ellipsis to indicate that something unwritten came something unwritten came earlier.earlier.• ““. . . I do,” said Cary.. . . I do,” said Cary.

An ellipses should be used with care, it An ellipses should be used with care, it would be wrong to misquote something.would be wrong to misquote something.


Use an ellipsis to indicate a Use an ellipsis to indicate a sentence trailing off.sentence trailing off.• Imagine this as the final sentence of a Imagine this as the final sentence of a

book chapter – it entices the reader to book chapter – it entices the reader to turn the page to read what happens turn the page to read what happens next:next:

Tom and Carlos were camping in the Tom and Carlos were camping in the woods, asleep in their tent, when they woods, asleep in their tent, when they heard it – the sound . . . heard it – the sound . . .


Us an ellipsis to indicate a long, slow Us an ellipsis to indicate a long, slow break.break.• There it was again . . . that soft but eerie There it was again . . . that soft but eerie

sound.sound.

Use an ellipsis to indicate slow-downs Use an ellipsis to indicate slow-downs in thought or conversation.in thought or conversation.• They looked sweetly into each other’s eyes They looked sweetly into each other’s eyes

until the moment was right, then slowly . . . until the moment was right, then slowly . . . gently . . . a kiss.gently . . . a kiss.

Rules for Rules for UnderliningUnderlining and and ItalicsItalics

Use italics primarily instead of Use italics primarily instead of underlining, especially when underlining, especially when typing. Underline when you are typing. Underline when you are writing out by hand or using it writing out by hand or using it for a special purpose. Either for a special purpose. Either way is grammatically correct – be way is grammatically correct – be consistent.consistent.


Use italics or underlining for Use italics or underlining for names of books, magazines, names of books, magazines, newspapers, movies, operas, newspapers, movies, operas, plays, and other large works.plays, and other large works.• The New York TimesThe New York TimesThe New York TimesThe New York Times• The Addams Family The Addams Family The Addams FamilyThe Addams Family• Time MagazineTime Magazine Time MagazineTime Magazine


Use quotation marks (not Use quotation marks (not underlining or italics) for the underlining or italics) for the names of songs, poems, names of songs, poems, magazine articles, newspaper magazine articles, newspaper articles, short stories, chapters articles, short stories, chapters of books, and other small works.of books, and other small works.• ““Singing in the Rain” - song Singing in the Rain” - song • ““Education Growing” – article Education Growing” – article • ““The Road Not Taken” - poemThe Road Not Taken” - poem


Use italics or underlining for Use italics or underlining for emphasis (but don’t abuse this).emphasis (but don’t abuse this).• I really mean it this time:I really mean it this time: Don’t bite the Don’t bite the

dog!dog!• Guess who asked me to the prom – Guess who asked me to the prom –

HartleyHartley!!• Will I Will I nevernever finish this algebra finish this algebra

homework?homework?


Use italics or underlining for Use italics or underlining for foreign words.foreign words.• I ordered I ordered coq au vincoq au vin for dinner. for dinner.• I ordered I ordered coq au vincoq au vin for dinner. for dinner.

Some words are no longer considered Some words are no longer considered foreign words, such as quiche and salsa. foreign words, such as quiche and salsa. You decide what is considered foreign, You decide what is considered foreign, but be consistent. but be consistent.


Use italics or underlining or Use italics or underlining or quotation marks for words used quotation marks for words used as words.as words.• Pneumonia Pneumonia is a tough word to spell.is a tough word to spell.• ““Pneumonia” is a tough word to spell.Pneumonia” is a tough word to spell.• PneumoniaPneumonia is a tough word to spell. is a tough word to spell.

Rules for Quotation MarksRules for Quotation Marks

Use quotation marks to enclose Use quotation marks to enclose what someone says (direct what someone says (direct quotes).quotes).• Mario said, “Get me a Coke,” and Elena Mario said, “Get me a Coke,” and Elena

replied, “Get it yourself.”replied, “Get it yourself.”

Remember do not use quotation marks Remember do not use quotation marks with indirect quotes.with indirect quotes.


Thoughts or questions in Thoughts or questions in someone’s mind (in other words, someone’s mind (in other words, ideas not spoken out loud) do ideas not spoken out loud) do not need quotation marks.not need quotation marks.• Will I survive this bungee jump? Austin Will I survive this bungee jump? Austin

wondered.wondered.


Use quotation marks to suggest Use quotation marks to suggest doubt or skepticism.doubt or skepticism.• You call this a “car”? I call it scrap You call this a “car”? I call it scrap

metal.metal.• The teacher said we did “okay” on the The teacher said we did “okay” on the

test – whatever that means.test – whatever that means.


Use quotation marks for Use quotation marks for definitions.definitions.• A principle is “a basic truth or a A principle is “a basic truth or a

standard of good behavior”; a principal standard of good behavior”; a principal is “one who holds a position of presiding is “one who holds a position of presiding rank, especially the head of a school.”rank, especially the head of a school.”


Use quotation marks for sayings.Use quotation marks for sayings.• My mom loves to use the saying “every dog My mom loves to use the saying “every dog

has its day.”has its day.”

Use quotation marks for labels, Use quotation marks for labels, markings, signs, etc.markings, signs, etc.• I’m confused. This stoplight says “stop” and I’m confused. This stoplight says “stop” and

that one says “go.”that one says “go.”• Stamp the receipts “paid.”Stamp the receipts “paid.”• Label this container “flour” and that one Label this container “flour” and that one

“sugar.”“sugar.”


Use quotation marks to indicate Use quotation marks to indicate clever or silly use of a word.clever or silly use of a word.• I love the “flowers” you made out of I love the “flowers” you made out of

ribbon and beads.ribbon and beads.• The dog “wolfed” down his dinner.The dog “wolfed” down his dinner.

Don’t overuse quotation marks in this Don’t overuse quotation marks in this manner. It begins to look cluttered.manner. It begins to look cluttered.


Commas and period always go Commas and period always go insideinside the quotation mark.the quotation mark.• Marsha said, “Let’s go,” and we did.Marsha said, “Let’s go,” and we did.• The title of the song is “Don’t Speak.”The title of the song is “Don’t Speak.”

Colons and semicolons always go Colons and semicolons always go outsideoutside the quotation mark. the quotation mark.• Catherine said, “I’ll clean my room”; now we’ll Catherine said, “I’ll clean my room”; now we’ll

see if she means it.see if she means it.• Mom uttered the first rule of “parental law”: Mom uttered the first rule of “parental law”:

just because I said so!just because I said so!


If you have a quotation within a If you have a quotation within a quotation, use single quotation marks quotation, use single quotation marks around it.around it.• Parker said, “My mom said, ‘No way!’ so I Parker said, “My mom said, ‘No way!’ so I

guess I can’t go.” guess I can’t go.” • She whispered, “I love the song ‘Singing in the She whispered, “I love the song ‘Singing in the

Rain.’”Rain.’”

If only a yes or no is quoted, it doesn’t matter if If only a yes or no is quoted, it doesn’t matter if you use quotation marks or not. Be consistent.you use quotation marks or not. Be consistent.


If several different speakers are If several different speakers are quoted, start a new paragraph quoted, start a new paragraph for each new speaker, especially for each new speaker, especially in a long dialogue.in a long dialogue.


Question marks and exclamation Question marks and exclamation points depend on what is being points depend on what is being quoted. If it is just the quoted quoted. If it is just the quoted material the question mark or material the question mark or exclamation point goes inside exclamation point goes inside the quote. If the whole sentence the quote. If the whole sentence is a question or exclamation, the is a question or exclamation, the punctuation goes outside the punctuation goes outside the quote. quote.


Examples:Examples:• I think he is the one that yelled, “Fire!”I think he is the one that yelled, “Fire!”• I was furious when he smugly said, I was furious when he smugly said,

“Drop dead”!“Drop dead”!• She asked, “Is that really you?”She asked, “Is that really you?”• Are you the one who yelled, “Help”?Are you the one who yelled, “Help”?

Rules for PunctuationRules for Punctuation

Be consistent.Be consistent. Edit and revise your essays Edit and revise your essays

specifically for punctuation.specifically for punctuation. Do not rely on punctuation Do not rely on punctuation

marks to set your tone, your marks to set your tone, your wording is much more important.wording is much more important.

Rewrite sentences that “seem” Rewrite sentences that “seem” weird – they probably are.weird – they probably are.

The EndThe End

*Most of the material and *Most of the material and examples are taken from examples are taken from Painless Painless

GrammarGrammar, by Rebecca Elliot, , by Rebecca Elliot, Ph.D.©1997Ph.D.©1997

Documents

Punctuation Review Rules of Grammar. Rules for Periods Use a period at the end of a complete sentence. Use a period at the end of a complete sentence