How To Understand Punctuation In Your Writing

Imagine a piece of writing that didn’t have any punctuation. It would be tough to read and understand. That is why punctuation plays a significant role in your writing. Learn how to use the punctuation correctly to become an excellent writer.

Some of my students find it difficult to understand some of the basic punctuation, like stopping at the end of a sentence when there is a period. And a pause when there is a comma. But, I don’t blame them. It’s exciting to read a new language and run through the sentences because you finally understand what you are reading.

Let’s dive right into the different purposes of the various punctuations.

We will go over the comma and apostrophes. You will see how a simple a mark can change the entire meaning of a sentence or a word. The purpose of punctuation is to help the reader understand you and to help you make your meaning clear.

The use of a comma:
To write lists
Separating
Bracketing
Pausing


Example:
I collect gold, rocks, shot glasses and paper.
I collect gold rocks, shot glasses and paper.
I collect gold, rocks shot glasses and papers.

Apostrophes for contractions:
If you don't put an apostrophe in some words, it can change the word.
he'll - hell
we're - were
she'd - shed
we'll - well

Apostrophes for possession:
Putting the apostrophe before or after the "s" can signal a plural or singular possessor
The girl's toys ( apostrophe before the 's = The toys belonging to one girl)
The girls' toys (apostrophe after the s = The toys belonging to many girls)

In summary, that was a simple exercise to help you understand the importance of the punctuation. Remember to keep it simple. If you need help reach out and I will help you.

Until next week,

Coach Barb

TEFL Certified


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