Grammar 101: Punctuation, Part 1
...with examples from Stargate Atlantis, Stargate SG-1, Bones, NCIS, Psych, Burn Notice, Angel, and The Vlogbrothers...
Punctuation is everything in written language, besides the actual letters or numbers, of course; it can make or break your piece within the first paragraph, if not the first few sentences. Punctuation is vital to remove ambiguities from the meaning of sentences, the punctuation marks serving to indicate the structure and organization of writing, as well as intonation and pauses to be observed when reading it aloud. Thankfully for the beginning writer, there are specific rules for the usage of each punctuation mark. We'll be covering them over three articles. This article covers periods, question marks, exclamation points, semicolons, and colons.
The Period
Depending on the region from which you hail, a period can be known as a full stop, a stop, a full point, or a dot. Whatever you call it, it's one of the three punctuation marks available to denote the end of a sentence. A period consists of a small dot ( . ) placed at the end of, typically, a complete statement. (Please refer to Basic Sentence Structure for more on complete sentences.) A period can mark the end of a declarative sentence, a mildly imperative sentence, or an indirect question.
Pineapples are the world's most awesome fruit.
Respect the pineapple. (versus Watch out for that pineapple!)
Gus wants to know how pineapples grow. (versus How do pineapples grow?)
A common mistake beginning writers make with periods is using them when a comma is actually the mark that is needed.
Michael met them on an undercover mission many years ago. Working to thwart a vicious oil monger.
With this punctuation, this example no longer forms a complex sentence and leaves you with a fragment. It should be punctuated thusly:
Michael met them on an undercover mission many years ago, working to thwart a vicious oil monger.
In certain cases, it's permissible to make an emphatic word or expression serve the purpose of a sentence. For example:
Again and again Ronon called out for Sheppard. No reply.
You should, however, be certain that the emphasis is really necessary, or it could just appear as a clipped sentence. Generally speaking, the place for broken sentences is in dialogue, when a character happens to speak in a clipped or fragmented way. Oh, dialogue, you're allowed to break so many rules.
Other Uses for the Period
Periods can also be used with abbreviations, in mathematics, and in computer language. In these cases, proper usage differs greatly from country to country and among the various style manuals. As always, refer to a good, recent dictionary or your style manual of choice for appropriate usage.
The Question Mark
Also known as an interrogation point, a question point, or a query, the question mark ( ? ) is, like the period, an end punctuation mark. It punctuates interrogative sentences.
What in the world is Dr. Brennan doing?
Who left this snow globe on my desk?
Amateurish authors often go overboard with end punctuation, particularly question marks.
"Are you telling me we can't get off the ship?????" Colonel O'Neill asked Thor.
However enticing it may seem, especially during intense dialogue or scene, using multiple question marks at the end of a sentence is just not proper in narrative prose. (Remember, we're not talking about blogging or text messaging here; that has "rules" of its own.) The tenseness or confusion you're trying to convey can be accomplished in other ways, such as with repetition or going in depth with details of the situation. For example:
"Are you telling me we can't get off the ship?" Colonel O'Neill asked Thor. Several seconds later, he continued: "Seriously, we can't get off?"
A single question mark is all that is needed. What if that's just not enough, you ask? Refer to this article by melayneseahawk.
Other Uses for the Question Mark
Like the period, the question mark has a few other uses. For instance, the question mark character is often used in place of missing or unknown data.
Angel was born in 1725 (?) in Ireland.
or
Angel was born in 172? in Ireland.
If unsure about a usage, refer to your friendly neighborhood dictionary for such instances.
The Exclamation Point
While the exclamation point, or exclamation mark, often has the same grammatical function as the other two end marks mentioned, its primary use is to create emphasis, such as strong feelings or high volume. A sentence ending in an exclamation point ( ! ) can be an actual exclamation, a command, or a sentence intended to be astonishing in some way.
Crickey!
Kree!
That bird was the size of a T-Rex!
Exclamation points can also be placed mid-sentence, especially after onomatopoeias, or words that imitate the sound they are describing.
There was a loud bang! at the Gateroom door.
Again, if you're unsure about proper usage, check your dictionary.
Much like question marks, exclamation points are often used multiple times by writers or just blatantly overused. Use the exclamation point sparingly as overuse diminishes the value. Emphasis can be achieved in better ways, similar to what was shown for the question mark.
Other Uses for the Exclamation Point
Exclamation points are frequently used in mathematics and computer languages.
The Semicolon
A semicolon ( ; ) is a punctuation mark that resembles a comma with a dot above it and is used to indicate pauses in sentences. While the comma has the same function, don't confuse the two. (See Part 2 for more on the comma.)
A semicolon is used to separate independent clauses not linked by a coordinating conjunction, such as and, but, for, and so.
Noticing the position of the planet's sun, Teyla broke the silence: "It is nearly nightfall; we cannot reach the village before dark."
Dr. Brennan's works are entertaining; they are full of engaging people and ideas.
If the second clause is preceded by a transitional phrase or a conjunctive adverb (besides, however, then, therefore, thus), use a semicolon to link the clauses.
"I like to eat people; however, they don't like to be eaten by me," the vampire mused.
The Jumper is mangled beyond repair; still, Sheppard hopes Zelenka can fix it.
Use semicolons between items in a series when the items contain commas, where the semicolons function as serial commas.
Donald, who hails from Scotland; Ziva, a skilled Mossad agent; and Abby, an energetic young woman
As with any rule, there are exceptions. An exception to the semicolon rule is when the clauses are very short and alike in form, or when the tone of the sentences is easy and conversational. In such cases, use a comma.
Here today, gone tomorrow.
I hardly knew him, he was so changed, Teyla thought of Kanaan after seeing the results of his time spent with Michael.
This may not be proper usage in all regions. Also, proper spacing and capitalization of words after the semicolon differ, so, as always, refer to your dictionary or style manual for your region.
Other Uses for the Semicolon
The semicolon also has applications in mathematics and computing.
The Colon
The colon ( : ) is a punctuation mark which usage varies among languages and historical periods. As a rule, however, a colon informs the reader what follows proves and explains, or simply enumerates elements of what is referred to before; it tells the reader that what follows is closely related to the preceding clause. Basically, use a colon to introduce an elaboration of what was just said, the formal expression of a rule or principle, or a list.
The plot is founded on amusing deception: the main character isn't really psychic.
Red Shirt Rule: Regarding Star Trek, if you wear a red shirt and are not a main character, you're going to die. Period.
John Green has authored three books: Looking for Alaska, An Abundance of Katherines, and Paper Towns.
Use a colon to introduce a quotation that is independent from the structure of the main sentence.
The writer starts his book boldly: "Four days ago, I was murdered. . ."
Don't use a colon, though, before a list if the list is grammatically essential to the introductory wording.
The novels by author John Green include Looking for Alaska, An Abundance of Katherines, and Paper Towns.
or
John Green has authored such books as Looking for Alaska, An Abundance of Katherines, and Paper Towns.
The proper use of capitalization varies some among style manuals and such, so refer to that old friend the dictionary if you have questions.
Other Uses for the Colon
Also used in formal letter introductions, mathematics, cartography, model building, computing, and the notation of time, the colon is a busy little bee.
Summary
Periods, question marks, and exclamation points cover complete sentences, while semicolons and colons deal with joining related complete sentences. Mastering these and the punctuation marks to be discussed later will go a long way to communicating effectively.
Resources:
Dictionary.com
The Elements of Style, Fourth Edition (William Strunk, Jr. and E.B. White)
Hodges' Harbrace Handbook, Fifteenth Edition (Cheryl Glenn, Robert Keith Miller, and Suzanne Strobeck Webb)
MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers, Sixth Edition (Joseph Gibaldi)
Wikipedia.org
Punctuation is everything in written language, besides the actual letters or numbers, of course; it can make or break your piece within the first paragraph, if not the first few sentences. Punctuation is vital to remove ambiguities from the meaning of sentences, the punctuation marks serving to indicate the structure and organization of writing, as well as intonation and pauses to be observed when reading it aloud. Thankfully for the beginning writer, there are specific rules for the usage of each punctuation mark. We'll be covering them over three articles. This article covers periods, question marks, exclamation points, semicolons, and colons.
The Period
Depending on the region from which you hail, a period can be known as a full stop, a stop, a full point, or a dot. Whatever you call it, it's one of the three punctuation marks available to denote the end of a sentence. A period consists of a small dot ( . ) placed at the end of, typically, a complete statement. (Please refer to Basic Sentence Structure for more on complete sentences.) A period can mark the end of a declarative sentence, a mildly imperative sentence, or an indirect question.
Pineapples are the world's most awesome fruit.
Respect the pineapple. (versus Watch out for that pineapple!)
Gus wants to know how pineapples grow. (versus How do pineapples grow?)
A common mistake beginning writers make with periods is using them when a comma is actually the mark that is needed.
Michael met them on an undercover mission many years ago. Working to thwart a vicious oil monger.
With this punctuation, this example no longer forms a complex sentence and leaves you with a fragment. It should be punctuated thusly:
Michael met them on an undercover mission many years ago, working to thwart a vicious oil monger.
In certain cases, it's permissible to make an emphatic word or expression serve the purpose of a sentence. For example:
Again and again Ronon called out for Sheppard. No reply.
You should, however, be certain that the emphasis is really necessary, or it could just appear as a clipped sentence. Generally speaking, the place for broken sentences is in dialogue, when a character happens to speak in a clipped or fragmented way. Oh, dialogue, you're allowed to break so many rules.
Other Uses for the Period
Periods can also be used with abbreviations, in mathematics, and in computer language. In these cases, proper usage differs greatly from country to country and among the various style manuals. As always, refer to a good, recent dictionary or your style manual of choice for appropriate usage.
The Question Mark
Also known as an interrogation point, a question point, or a query, the question mark ( ? ) is, like the period, an end punctuation mark. It punctuates interrogative sentences.
What in the world is Dr. Brennan doing?
Who left this snow globe on my desk?
Amateurish authors often go overboard with end punctuation, particularly question marks.
"Are you telling me we can't get off the ship?????" Colonel O'Neill asked Thor.
However enticing it may seem, especially during intense dialogue or scene, using multiple question marks at the end of a sentence is just not proper in narrative prose. (Remember, we're not talking about blogging or text messaging here; that has "rules" of its own.) The tenseness or confusion you're trying to convey can be accomplished in other ways, such as with repetition or going in depth with details of the situation. For example:
"Are you telling me we can't get off the ship?" Colonel O'Neill asked Thor. Several seconds later, he continued: "Seriously, we can't get off?"
A single question mark is all that is needed. What if that's just not enough, you ask? Refer to this article by melayneseahawk.
Other Uses for the Question Mark
Like the period, the question mark has a few other uses. For instance, the question mark character is often used in place of missing or unknown data.
Angel was born in 1725 (?) in Ireland.
or
Angel was born in 172? in Ireland.
If unsure about a usage, refer to your friendly neighborhood dictionary for such instances.
The Exclamation Point
While the exclamation point, or exclamation mark, often has the same grammatical function as the other two end marks mentioned, its primary use is to create emphasis, such as strong feelings or high volume. A sentence ending in an exclamation point ( ! ) can be an actual exclamation, a command, or a sentence intended to be astonishing in some way.
Crickey!
Kree!
That bird was the size of a T-Rex!
Exclamation points can also be placed mid-sentence, especially after onomatopoeias, or words that imitate the sound they are describing.
There was a loud bang! at the Gateroom door.
Again, if you're unsure about proper usage, check your dictionary.
Much like question marks, exclamation points are often used multiple times by writers or just blatantly overused. Use the exclamation point sparingly as overuse diminishes the value. Emphasis can be achieved in better ways, similar to what was shown for the question mark.
Other Uses for the Exclamation Point
Exclamation points are frequently used in mathematics and computer languages.
The Semicolon
A semicolon ( ; ) is a punctuation mark that resembles a comma with a dot above it and is used to indicate pauses in sentences. While the comma has the same function, don't confuse the two. (See Part 2 for more on the comma.)
A semicolon is used to separate independent clauses not linked by a coordinating conjunction, such as and, but, for, and so.
Noticing the position of the planet's sun, Teyla broke the silence: "It is nearly nightfall; we cannot reach the village before dark."
Dr. Brennan's works are entertaining; they are full of engaging people and ideas.
If the second clause is preceded by a transitional phrase or a conjunctive adverb (besides, however, then, therefore, thus), use a semicolon to link the clauses.
"I like to eat people; however, they don't like to be eaten by me," the vampire mused.
The Jumper is mangled beyond repair; still, Sheppard hopes Zelenka can fix it.
Use semicolons between items in a series when the items contain commas, where the semicolons function as serial commas.
Donald, who hails from Scotland; Ziva, a skilled Mossad agent; and Abby, an energetic young woman
As with any rule, there are exceptions. An exception to the semicolon rule is when the clauses are very short and alike in form, or when the tone of the sentences is easy and conversational. In such cases, use a comma.
Here today, gone tomorrow.
I hardly knew him, he was so changed, Teyla thought of Kanaan after seeing the results of his time spent with Michael.
This may not be proper usage in all regions. Also, proper spacing and capitalization of words after the semicolon differ, so, as always, refer to your dictionary or style manual for your region.
Other Uses for the Semicolon
The semicolon also has applications in mathematics and computing.
The Colon
The colon ( : ) is a punctuation mark which usage varies among languages and historical periods. As a rule, however, a colon informs the reader what follows proves and explains, or simply enumerates elements of what is referred to before; it tells the reader that what follows is closely related to the preceding clause. Basically, use a colon to introduce an elaboration of what was just said, the formal expression of a rule or principle, or a list.
The plot is founded on amusing deception: the main character isn't really psychic.
Red Shirt Rule: Regarding Star Trek, if you wear a red shirt and are not a main character, you're going to die. Period.
John Green has authored three books: Looking for Alaska, An Abundance of Katherines, and Paper Towns.
Use a colon to introduce a quotation that is independent from the structure of the main sentence.
The writer starts his book boldly: "Four days ago, I was murdered. . ."
Don't use a colon, though, before a list if the list is grammatically essential to the introductory wording.
The novels by author John Green include Looking for Alaska, An Abundance of Katherines, and Paper Towns.
or
John Green has authored such books as Looking for Alaska, An Abundance of Katherines, and Paper Towns.
The proper use of capitalization varies some among style manuals and such, so refer to that old friend the dictionary if you have questions.
Other Uses for the Colon
Also used in formal letter introductions, mathematics, cartography, model building, computing, and the notation of time, the colon is a busy little bee.
Summary
Periods, question marks, and exclamation points cover complete sentences, while semicolons and colons deal with joining related complete sentences. Mastering these and the punctuation marks to be discussed later will go a long way to communicating effectively.
Resources:
Dictionary.com
The Elements of Style, Fourth Edition (William Strunk, Jr. and E.B. White)
Hodges' Harbrace Handbook, Fifteenth Edition (Cheryl Glenn, Robert Keith Miller, and Suzanne Strobeck Webb)
MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers, Sixth Edition (Joseph Gibaldi)
Wikipedia.org