PUNCTUATION RULES IN ENGLISH

*via- http://www.posterenvy.com
While this example was a humorous one, it helps to emphasize the importance of appropriate punctuations – whether in our written or spoken sentences. Punctuation is one of the most important aspects of  the English language and yet, it is one that is taken lightly, almost too casually! It is in fact this feature of writing that gives meaning to the written words, much like the pauses and changes in the tone of voice while speaking. An error in punctuation can convey a completely different meaning to the one that is intended. You only have to look at the example in the beginning of this blog to realize how one little comma can change the meaning of a perfectly innocent remark!  So how does one, who is habituated to the emoticon, sms-lingo and acronyms get his punctuations in place? It is simple. Follow the cardinal rules given below and watch how your well punctuated sentences help you express yourself so much more effectively!   *via- http://www.thenaughtyseat.co.uk  1. Period/ Full Stop (.)

• To be used to indicate the completion of a sentence

e.g. The activists have been arrested.

•   Is also used when you shorten a word

e.g  Contd. – Continued
        Dr. – Doctor
2. Comma

• To be used when you want to indicate a pause during a written or verbal communication

eg. Hi, I am here to help you with your daily chores.

• Also used to separate a list of words in a sentence

e.g. Reena, Sheena, Diven and Saksham are going to watch a movie.
3. Semi Colon (;)

• Represents a pause of greater importance and length than a comma. It is used to separate closelyrelated independent clauses.

e.g. He was a tall, gallant warrior; we all loved him.

• One more very common use of the semi-colon is to join two clauses using a transition suchas however, therefore, or on the other hand.  

e.g. Rohit is an Indian; however, he lives in the United States.
4. Colon (:)
A colon also represents a pause – more complete than a semi colon – but less than a full stop. It is generally
used before a list or an explanation.
e.g. The following students have won a scholarship for this year: Alka, Pratyush, Dhruv and Saira.
e.g. “Elephant (noun): a large grey mammal found in Africa and India.”
5. Question Mark (?)
A question mark is the sign of the interrogative and is used after direct questions.
e.g. Would you like to have a cup of tea?
6. Exclamation Mark (!)
The exclamation mark is used after sentences used to express emotions or a wish, and interjections.
e.g. O Father! In heaven ….
7.Inverted Commas/ Quotation Marks (“ ”)
These are used to depict quoted or spoken language. They are used when the words of the speaker are quoted
verbatim.
e.g. The Principal said: “All teachers are required to be present for the staff meeting.”
So you see, it is very important to be able to punctuate your sentences properly. Otherwise life would just be one big blubbering party where all your sentences will mean the same and convey no emotion. Without punctuations there would be never-ending sentences, nothing exciting, no comic timings. There would be prolonged & winding conversations that would most definitely put people to sleep. Zzzzzzzzzz…
Also, you wouldn’t ever be able to get in word in between because nobody would ever stop talking! Imagine that! We hope that by now you get the general drift on the importance of correct punctuation marks. Psst.. These little language signs would also help you score better and help you score brownie points with your English language teacher. Have you ever had any punctuation related goof ups? Share with us in the comment space below –we could all do with a good laugh. What say?