Punctuation Cheat Sheet
6 tricky punctuation marks and how to use them
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Apostrophes
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! it is: Apostrophes indicate possession or a contraction of two words (can't, won't, it's, etc.).!
What
When to use it: My daughter's toy box (possession). It's a beautiful day (indicates the contracted "it is").!
When not to use it: Do not use an apostrophe to create a plural. Instead, add s.
Commas
What it is: Commas mark a pause in speech or thought.!
When to use it: Use commas to break up long sentences to allow the reader to take a breath.!
When not to use it: Do not over-fill your sentences with commas. Instead, shorten the sentences.
Colons
What it is: Colons are used to introduce information.!
When to use it: To introduce an explanation or a list. "There are three items: a pen, a ring, and a fork." !
When not to use it: Do not confuse a colon with a comma or a semicolon.
Quotation marks
What it is: Quotation marks are used to reference quoted material or show that someone is speaking.!
When to use it: When you're using a direct quote (not your own words) or indicating speech.!
When not to use it: Never use quotation marks for emphasis. Instead, try italics.
Hyphens
What it is: Hyphens are a small mark (smaller than a dash) used to join words together.!
When to use it: When joining two words to describe something: "long-term relationship", "third-party contract", etc.!
When not to use it: Do not use a hyphen instead of a dash. They have different functions.
Semicolons
What it is: Semicolons are used to to link two related but distinct ideas.!
When to use it: To join two independent clauses (complete sentences) that are close in meaning.!
When not to use it: Do not use a semicolon as a comma. Do not use it instead of a colon.
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© Amelia Wilson 2016
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