Comma, Colon, Semicolon, Dash
Which Punctuation Mark Should I Use?
Do you get confused as to which punctuation to use? I think we all do at times. As a writer's coach, I find punctuation challenges many writers, both new and experienced.
But following punctuation rules helps our readers understand our writing better. Improper punctuation might confuse your reader. Some readers muddle through. Others might choose to leave for a site with better grammar and punctuation.
I think we have all seen the following humorous example of why proper punctuation is essential.
- Let’s eat, Grandma.
- Let’s eat Grandma.
In the first sentence, the writer is telling Grandma it is time to eat.
But, omitting the comma in the second sentence changes the meaning drastically. Here, the writer is suggesting they should eat Grandma.
I’m sure Grandmother much prefers the comma version.
Grammar Apps and Tools
Using a tool such as Grammarly helps immensely. Even the free version offers insight into proper sentence structure. For most people, the free version offers enough help.
But you will save a great deal of editing time and frustration if you learn proper punctuation rules and apply them as you write. And, although Grammarly is usually correct, it is not perfect. Any of the writing apps can fail.
So let’s get started with these 4 types of punctuation and their usage.
I didn't get the difference between the sentences below (sorry, I had to copy and paste it, I couldn't do a screenshot).
Thank you.
Do not capitalize the first word after the colon unless it is a proper noun, is part of a quote, or is the first in a series of sentences:
Incorrect: I have three plans for today: to eat, sleep, and write.
Correct: I have three plans for today: to eat, sleep, and write.