English grammar explained in plain language simple enough to be understood.
Yesterday we talked about how a colon warns a reader that a list is coming. The important thing to remember is that you must have a complete thought before the colon and the list. Look at this sentence:I eat only… Read more407. When Not to Use a Colon for a List
The little comma can sometimes cause big confusion for writers. People often throw a comma into their writing just because they think it must go in there somewhere. However, there are actual rules for when to use a comma. Your… Read more402. Highlight on Writing – 12 Places to Put a Comma
When you describe a noun with multiple adjectives, you need a comma between the adjectives. Look at these sentence examples:The Amazon driver delivered a big, heavy box to our front door. The word box is described with two adjectives: big… Read more387. Use a Comma Between Two Adjectives
Parentheses ( ) are a type of punctuation. Parentheses are always used as a set of two. Put parentheses around words and information that are not of major importance. The words that are inside a parentheses could be left out and the… Read more416. Parentheses
Use a dash to set off a series of items when the sentence might be confusing otherwise.The three boys – Sam, John, and Bill – were eager to get to the beach.My four cousins – ranging in age from 13… Read more414. Using the Dash
Anytime you write a numeral four numbers or larger, you must insert a comma. A comma goes into a numeral after the third place column, like this: 1,000 Here are some other four-number numerals: 2,500 6,7259,900 If you write a… Read more382. Use a Comma in Large Numerals
When you are addressing a person by name, you need to put a comma after their name.Look at this example:John, I need your help. You are speaking to John, so you must put a comma after his name before saying… Read more388. Use a Comma to Set off a Person’s Name
We know that a simple sentence is one complete thought. A period should go at the end of the complete thought. When a writer uses a comma between two complete thoughts, we end up with a run-on sentence. Here are… Read more208. Avoid Run-On Sentences and the Comma Splice
A period is used as stop punctuation. Every time you reach the end of a statement sentence, you should put a period. Today is Thursday.I bought a new sweater yesterday.Sam’s brother is a teacher.Although it is raining, the sun is… Read more404. The Period