Period

Definition

A period is a punctuation mark (.) used to indicate the end of a declarative sentence or statement. It signals a full stop, letting the reader know that the thought is complete, and helps in organizing sentences into clear, coherent statements. The use of periods is essential for effective communication, as it provides structure and clarity to written language.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Periods are used exclusively at the end of declarative sentences and statements but are not used for questions or exclamations.
2. When abbreviating words, such as 'Dr.' for 'Doctor', a period is necessary to signal the abbreviation's completion.
3. In lists or bullet points, periods are often omitted after each item unless the items are complete sentences.
4. A common error is the misuse of periods in certain contexts, such as using them after titles or headings where they are not required.
5. In some writing styles, like scientific or technical writing, periods may be used differently based on formatting rules.

Review Questions

• How does the use of a period contribute to the clarity of written communication?
  • The use of a period plays a critical role in enhancing the clarity of written communication by clearly signaling the end of a thought. This allows readers to process information in manageable chunks, making it easier to understand and follow the writer's ideas. When periods are used correctly, they help structure sentences and prevent confusion that can arise from run-on sentences or sentence fragments.
• Discuss the difference between periods and other forms of end punctuation in terms of their functions.
  • Periods differ from other forms of end punctuation, such as question marks and exclamation points, in their primary function. While periods denote the completion of a declarative statement, question marks indicate an inquiry, prompting a response from the reader. Exclamation points convey strong emotion or emphasis. Understanding these differences helps writers choose the appropriate punctuation based on the intent of their sentences.
• Evaluate how misusing periods can affect the readability and professionalism of written text.
  • Misusing periods can significantly undermine the readability and professionalism of written text by introducing ambiguity and confusion. For instance, incorrect placement may lead to sentence fragments or run-ons that disrupt the flow of ideas. In professional settings, this can reflect poorly on the writer's attention to detail and communication skills. Thus, mastering proper period usage is essential for maintaining clarity and credibility in writing.

Related terms

Declarative Sentence: A type of sentence that makes a statement or expresses an opinion, typically ending with a period.

End Punctuation: Punctuation marks, including periods, question marks, and exclamation points, that appear at the end of sentences to indicate their completion.

Sentence Fragment: A group of words that does not express a complete thought and cannot stand alone as a sentence, often lacking the necessary punctuation like a period.