Chapter 5Mechanics of Writing

Business Communication

Copyright 2010 South-Western Cengage Learning

PunctuationHelps readers

interpret your ideas and questions

Shows where one thought ends and the next begins

25.1 External Marks and the Comma

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Punctuation clarifies and adds emphasis to your writing.

Punctuation IncludesInternal Marks External MarksCommasSemicolonsColonsQuotation marksParenthesesDashesApostrophesHyphens

PeriodsQuestion marksExclamation points

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The Perioda punctuation mark used to signal the end of

a sentence or an abbreviation

45.1 External Marks and the Comma

The PeriodCan be used

At the end of sentences The choir members will sing in Italy during the

holiday season.With abbreviations

Mr.In lists

1. One change of clothing 2. Bathing suit, swim cap, sandals, towel, and

sunscreen

55.1 External Marks and the Comma

The Question Marka punctuation mark used after a direct

question and after each part in a series of questions

65.1 External Marks and the Comma

The Question MarkCan be used

After direct questions Do you agree that summer seems to pass more

quickly than winter?In a series

Did she apply to Temple University? to Boston College? to Florida International University?

75.1 External Marks and the Comma

The Exclamation Pointa punctuation mark that shows strong

emotion

85.1 External Marks and the Comma

The Exclamation PointMay follow a word, a group of words, or a

sentenceQuick! Here’s an opportunity to make money!

Should be used sparingly in business documents

95.1 External Marks and the Comma

The Commaan internal punctuation mark used to

separate items in a sentence

105.1 External Marks and the Comma

The CommaCan be used

With introductory elements Meanwhile, I will begin the next phase of the project.

In compound sentences I will go to the hockey game on Friday, or I will

babysit for my niece.With interrupting elements

The most interesting part of the movie, I believe, is the chase scene.

115.1 External Marks and the Comma

The CommaWith direct address

Dr. Oakes, you have been exceedingly helpful to my family.

In a seriesEven’s college essay was thoughtful,

humorous, and brief.Between adjectives

The short, thin teenager envied the tall, husky football players.

125.1 External Marks and the Comma

The CommaWith omission of words

The treasurer is Yoshi; the secretary, Elena; and the president, Warren.

In numbers and datesOn May 3, 2010, the day was overcast and

chilly.With abbreviations

Maps, tools, supplies, etc., will be needed.

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