Topic Summaries

Types and effects

GCSE > English Language > Edexcel > GCSE English Language Topic Summaries > PUNCTUATION > Types and effects
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VOCABULARY

Type Symbol Effect
Full stop/period . Mark the end of a sentence and can be used to create sentence fragments and lots of short, sharp sentences for drama.
Comma , Separates items in a list or clauses in a sentence to ensure smooth reading and prevent ambiguity. The Oxford comma (the comma before ‘and’ at the end of a list) is optional but can help add clarity (e.g. ‘We played Uno, Scrabble, and Snakes and Ladders’).
Apostrophe ' Indicates possession (e.g. Myra’s book) or contraction (e.g. wouldn’t).
Question mark ? Indicates an interrogative sentence that poses a question.
Exclamation mark ! Adds emphasis and conveys extreme/heightened emotions e.g. surprise, excitement, aggression, elation.
Colon : Introduces explanations or lists, creating a sense of expectation.
Semicolon ; Combines two independent clauses to more closely unite two ideas (e.g. I studied hard for this exam; I think I’m going to pass.). Note that these can’t be dependent clauses (e.g. I studied hard for this exam; so that I can pass.) The two clauses on either side of the semicolon need to work as standalone sentences.
Parenthesis/brackets ( ) Enclose additional information or clarification. This can make text feel more precise if the parenthetical information adds detail, or feel more conversational if the parentheticals are more like extra remarks.
Dash - Creates a stronger break than a comma, adding emphasis, interruption, or an abrupt change in tone.
Quotation marks " " Indicate direct speech. These can be ‘single’ or “double quote marks” (just pick one and be consistent).
Ellipsis ... Suggests hesitation, omission, or trailing thoughts, adding suspense or ambiguity.

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