GUIDE ON HOW TO USE COMMON PUNCTUATION MARKS

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Punctuation marks are symbols used to clarify the meaning and structure of written language. Here's a guide on how to use common punctuation marks:

1. Comma (,)

• Separate items in lists: apples, bananas, oranges
  
• Separate clauses: I went to the store, and I bought milk
  
• Set off nonessential phrases: The book, which is on the bestseller list, is a great read.
  
  

2. Period (.)

• End sentences: I love reading.
  
• Abbreviate words: Dr., Mrs., etc.
  
• Indicate decimal points: 3.14
  
  

3 Exclamation Mark (!)

• Express strong emotions: Wow! That's amazing!
  
• Emphasize importance: Don't forget!
  
• Use in titles: "The Great Gatsby!"
  
  

4. Question Mark (?)

• End questions: What's your name?
  
• Indicate uncertainty: He's going to the party?
  
  

5. Colon (:)

• Introduce lists or explanations: I have three favorite foods: pizza, sushi, tacos
  
• Separate independent clauses: I have a lot to do: laundry, cleaning, and shopping
  
  

6. Semicolon (;)

• Separate closely related independent clauses: I have a big test tomorrow; I'm studying all night
  
• Separate items in lists when using commas within items
  
  

7. Apostrophe (')

• Indicate possession: John's car
  
• Form contractions: don't, won't, can't
  
• Indicate missing letters: '60s
  
  

8. Quotation Marks ("")

• Set off direct speech: "I love reading," she said
  
• Indicate titles: "To Kill a Mockingbird"
  
• Set off quotations: "The only thing we have to fear is fear itself"
  
  

9. Parentheses (())

• Provide additional information: The company (founded in 1990) has grown rapidly
  
• Clarify meaning: The recipe requires 2 cups of flour (all-purpose)
  
  

10. Dash (-)

• Indicate breaks in thought: I was going to the store—but I forgot my wallet
  
• Set off nonessential phrases: The book—which is on the bestseller list—is a great read
  
  

11. Ellipsis (...)

• Indicate omitted text: The report stated... "the company will expand"
  
• Indicate trailing off: I'm going to... uh...
  
  

12. Brackets [ ]

• Clarify meaning: The report [attached] shows significant growth
  
• Provide additional information: The company [founded in 1990] has expanded
  
  

Mastering punctuation marks will enhance your writing clarity and effectiveness!

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