Module 6: Punctuation
Every detail counts in professional writing – and punctuation is no exception. Even a seemingly small error, such as a missing comma or a misplaced apostrophe, can interrupt the flow of a text or, in some cases, alter its meaning. We’ll teach you how to use punctuation correctly so that every piece of writing reads smoothly and holds the reader’s attention from start to finish.
How This Module Works
Punctuation has the power to shape how your message is read and understood, so it’s important to get it right. In this module, you’ll learn how to recognize and correct the most common punctuation errors out there.
6.1: Terminal Punctuation
Explore common errors related to punctuation at the end of a sentence: periods, question marks, and exclamation points.
6.2: Commas
Learn how to use commas to correctly separate clauses in a sentence, introduce quotations, separate items in a list, and more. Break bad habits and finally learn the rules for comma use!
6.3: Colons And Semicolons
Find out the difference between colons and semicolons, and learn how and when to use each correctly.
6.4: Apostrophes
Discover exactly how to use this widely misused punctuation mark to indicate possession and mark missing letters in contractions.
6.5: Quotation Marks
Read our expert advice on using quotation marks in US versus UK English, including how to punctuate and capitalize text within quotations.
6.6: Hyphens And Dashes
Examine the difference between hyphens, en dashes, and em dashes, and learn when (and when not) to use each one.
6.7: Ellipses, Parentheses, And Lists
Find out how to punctuate parentheses and items in vertical lists. Plus, learn to use ellipses to indicate omitted text or an unfinished sentence.
6.8: Module Quiz
Test what you’ve learned with a short quiz, and highlight any areas you might need to revisit.
Why Is This Useful to Know?
The ability to apply punctuation with ease is a valuable skill for any professional to learn. The right punctuation boosts clarity and creates a natural rhythm that guides the reader smoothly toward the document’s purpose – whether that’s informing them of key updates, persuading them to take action, providing instructions, or anything else!
✓ Apply punctuation confidently across all types of writing.
✓ Improve the readability of your communications.
✓ Ensure writing hits the mark by ensuring clarity.
✓ Prevent small errors from undermining your credibility.
✓ Save time on revisions by avoiding common errors.
Perfect Your Punctuation Skills
Want to make sure you’re using the right punctuation in the right places? Visit our blog for expert tips and straightforward how-to guides.
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