stylemarks

use quotation marks to indicate direct speech.

don't forget to add an exclamation mark at the end of an exciting sentence.

a question mark should follow a direct question.

place a comma after the introductory phrase.

a colon introduces a list or explanation.

use a semicolon to connect related independent clauses.

an em dash can emphasize a sudden break in thought.

parentheses contain additional information.

square brackets clarify or modify quoted text.

an apostrophe shows possession or contraction.

an ellipsis indicates a pause or omitted words.

remember to end your declarative sentence with a period.