Stop Punctuation is punctuation that signals a stop in your writing.
Stop punctuation is also called end punctuation because we use stop punctuation at the end of each sentence.
A period ( . ) is stop punctuation. We use a period at the end of a sentence that makes a statement.
Today is Monday.
The forecast today calls for rain.
I like chocolate ice cream.
Each of these sentences makes a statement. A statement ends with a period.
A question mark ( ? ) is also stop punctuation. We use a question mark at the end of a sentence that asks a question.
Is is going to rain today?
Can you pick me up after school?
What was our math assignment for last night?
Each of these sentences asks a question. A question ends with a question mark.
An exclamation point ( ! ) is another piece of stop punctuation. We use an exclamation point at the end of a sentence that indicates excitement or danger.
Look out! That tree is falling!
I can’t believe we are going to Italy over spring break!
Having the lead role in this play is the opportunity of a lifetime!
Each of these sentences shows excitement or danger. An exclamatory sentence ends with an exclamation point.
Each sentence is a separate idea. When you stop a sentence, you must use stop punctuation to show that you have ended the sentence. A period (.), a question mark (?), and and exclamation point (!) are all stop punctuation. Never use a comma as stop punctuation.