When quotes and dialog is used within blocks of text, you need to punctuate them correctly for reader clarity. Where end marks and commas belong can become confusing, which is why we created this quick guide. Take a look at our simple-to-follow rules when using quotation marks to ensure they are punctuated in a manner that is consistent and makes
sense. Quotation marks are punctuation marks used to indicate the beginning and end of a direct quote within a block of text. They can be used as a double quotation mark to enclose a full quotation or a single quotation mark to enclose quotations within quotations. Quotation marks allow
you to use somebody else’s words, speech, and thoughts in your writing to provide support to your message. They also add interest and signify clarification, and add detail. Direct quotations represent the exact words of another person or character and require the use of quotation marks. Indirect quotations use only the general idea or meaning of what another person said and can be applied via paraphrasing. These do not require quotation marks. When using quotation marks, it is important to punctuate them correctly and consistently. The following questions are commonly asked to help determine which rules apply to punctuation within or surrounding quotation mark use. The only time you capitalize the first word of a quote is when it falls at the beginning of a sentence or is a proper noun. For example: A period always goes inside the quotation marks. Other terminal marks may be found either
inside or outside the end quotation mark, and those rules are explained below. For example:
Does a Comma Belong Inside or Outside Quotes?Unlike a period, there are various rules to using a comma with quotation marks. Use these rules and examples to determine comma placement. Comma Rule #1Place a comma after an introductory expression before the quotation marks. For example:
Comma Rule #2Use a comma after a quoted sentence, inside the quotation marks, followed by a concluding statement. For example:
Comma Rule #3Use a comma inside the quotation marks when followed by an interrupting expression. Then use a comma after the expression, outside the quotation marks, before concluding the quotation. For example:
Does a Semicolon or Colon Belong Inside Quotes?Semicolons and colons are never placed inside quotation marks unless they are part of the direct quote being used. A colon can introduce a formal quote or tone or can follow a quote. For example:
Semicolons follow the rules of semicolons used both before and after a quote outside the quotation marks. For example:
Do Question Marks and Exclamation Points Marks Belong Inside Quotes?When a direct quote includes a question mark or exclamation point, the punctuation will be inside the quotation mark. But, when the question mark or exclamation point is not directly part of the quote, it will be placed outside the quotation marks. For example:
Quick Reference Guide for Punctuation and Quotation MarksHe asked her, “please take the dog for a walk.” Outside Quotation Marks: following introductory and interrupting expressions. She replied, “as soon as the rain stops.” Outside Quotation Marks: unless part of a direct quote. She rolled her eyes, “Dad, I’ve got this under control,”; highlighting her teenage attitude. Outside Quotation Marks: unless part of a direct quote. He glanced at her and asked, “is that really the tone you want to take”? Outside Quotation Marks: unless part of a direct quote. She looked at him and whined, “but dad, the rain will ruin my hair”! Let’s ReviewUsing proper and consistent punctuation is important when used with quotations. Depending on the punctuation, it may belong either inside or outside the quotation marks. Therefore it is crucial to understand the simple rules surrounding each. Use the chart provided above for a quick reference to what belongs where and the more detailed explanation and examples to help drive home the point. What comes first punctuation or quotation marks?Place a question mark or exclamation point within closing quotation marks if the punctuation applies to the quotation itself. Place the punctuation outside the closing quotation marks if the punctuation applies to the whole sentence.
Do you put punctuation before a quote?When you include quoted material or dialogue in a sentence then you should precede it with a comma unless it fits into the flow of the sentence seamlessly, e.g. The President said that there is "no smoking gun" to be found.
Do you put periods before or after quotations?The final period or comma goes inside the quotation marks, even if it is not a part of the quoted material, unless the quotation is followed by a citation. If a citation in parentheses follows the quotation, the period follows the citation.
What is the rule for punctuation with quotation marks?Quotation Marks with Commas, Periods, and Other Punctuation
In American English, commas and periods should be placed within the quotation marks as long as they do not change the meaning of the quotation.
|