Here are some common punctuation characters:
End of Sentence Punctuation:
* Period (.): Marks the end of a declarative sentence.
* Question Mark (?): Marks the end of an interrogative (question) sentence.
* Exclamation Mark (!): Indicates strong emotion or emphasis.
Other Common Punctuation:
* Comma (,): Separates items in a list, clauses in a sentence, and phrases for clarity.
* Semicolon (;): Separates independent clauses that are closely related in meaning.
* Colon (:): Introduces lists, explanations, or quotations.
* Apostrophe ('): Used to indicate possession, contractions, or missing letters.
* Hyphen (-): Joins words together to create compound words or modify meaning.
* Dash (—): Used for emphasis, parenthetical phrases, or abrupt breaks in thought.
* Parentheses ( ): Enclose nonessential information or explanations.
* Brackets [ ]: Used to enclose added or explanatory information within a quotation.
* Quotation Marks (" "): Indicate direct speech, titles, or words used in a specific way.
* Ellipsis (...): Indicates omitted words or a pause.
Other Less Common Punctuation:
* Slash (/): Indicates options or divisions.
* Asterisk (*): Used for footnotes, references, or emphasis.
* Number Sign (#): Used in headings, social media, and for special purposes.
The specific use of punctuation can vary depending on the language and style guide.
By understanding the purpose and function of each punctuation character, writers can effectively communicate their intended meaning and ensure clear, engaging writing.