Quotation Or Period First

Introduction

One of the most common questions in English grammar is whether to put the quotation mark or period first. This is something that many people struggle with, especially those who are not native speakers of the language. In this article, we will provide you with the answers to this question, as well as some tips on how to use them correctly.

What is a Quotation?

A quotation is a phrase, sentence, or passage taken from a book, speech, or other source and repeated verbatim. It is usually enclosed in quotation marks or inverted commas to indicate that it is a direct quote. Quotations are often used to provide evidence, support arguments, or add interest and variety to a piece of writing.

What is a Period?

A period is a punctuation mark (.) used to indicate the end of a sentence. It is also known as a full stop. Periods are used to separate sentences from each other and to mark the end of a thought or idea.

Which Comes First: Quotation or Period?

When you use a quotation in a sentence, you may wonder which one should come first: the quotation mark or the period. The answer is that it depends on the context.

If the quotation is a complete sentence, the period should come inside the quotation mark. For example:

He said, "I am going to the store."

If the quotation is part of a sentence, the period should come outside the quotation mark. For example:

She told me that she is "not feeling well".

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes that people make when using quotations and periods:

• Putting the period inside the quotation mark when the quotation is not a complete sentence.
• Using a comma instead of a period after the quotation mark.
• Leaving out the quotation mark altogether.

Why is it Important to Use Quotations and Periods Correctly?

Using quotations and periods correctly is important for several reasons:

• It makes your writing clearer and easier to understand.
• It shows that you have a good grasp of English grammar.
• It makes your writing look more professional.

Question and Answer

Q: What should I do if the quotation ends in a question mark or exclamation point?

A: If the quotation ends in a question mark or exclamation point, the punctuation mark should be included inside the quotation mark. For example:

She asked, "Are you coming with me?"

He shouted, "Get out of here!"

Conclusion

In conclusion, knowing when to use quotations and periods correctly is an essential part of good writing. By following the rules outlined in this article, you can avoid common mistakes and make your writing look more professional.