Period punctuation, also known as a full stop, denotes the end of a sentence. In English grammar, periods are the most common form of sentence punctuation and are used to indicate the end of a declarative or an imperative sentence. Periods are also used to separate abbreviations from the full form of a word. This article provides an overview of the rules and examples of period punctuation.
How to use Period
A single space should be left after a period before starting a new sentence.
E.g., This is the first sentence. This is the next sentence.
Rules for Using Periods
A period is generally used at the end of a complete sentence or independent clause.
Examples:
She went to the store.
He always smiles when he sees me.
We are going to the park later.
Periods should be used after most abbreviations.
For example: "U.S.A." However, it is not uncommon to use the abbreviation without a period, E.g. USA
Periods are also used after titles and initials.
Examples:
"J.K. Rowling" or "Dr. Seuss."
Periods are used after numbers in lists and after numbers that designate a sequence.
Examples:
1. First item, 2. Second item, 3. Third item.
Step 1. Gather supplies
Step 2. Preheat oven
Step 3. Mix ingredients
Periods are used after in email addresses and website addresses.
Examples:
www.example.com
NOTE: A sentence ending with a URL or email does not need to terminate with a period. The period in the end could potentially confuse readers, as they may think that the period is part of the URL.
Examples:
For more information, visit our website at www.example.com.
Corrected: Visit our website at www.example.com for more information.
If you have any questions, contact us at [email protected].
Corrected: Contact us at [email protected] if you have any questions.
Also Read:
In American English, when a sentence ends with a quotation mark, a period should be placed inside the quotation mark. In British English, the period follows the quotation mark.
Examples:
American English: She said, "I'm ready."
British English: She said, "I'm ready".
American English: "I love going for walks in the park."
British English: "I love going for walks in the park".
When NOT to use a Period
If a sentence ends with an exclamation point or question mark, no additional period should be placed after it.
Examples:
Did she really mean it? I asked her again, and she said yes.
The flower was beautiful! We couldn't believe it was real.
If a quote ends with an exclamation point or question mark, a period is not necessary.
Examples:
"I can't believe it's been five years already!" she exclaimed. "Where did the time go?"
"That's the million-dollar question!" he replied.
After an ellipsis
Examples:
He was unsure what to do... He decided to take a walk.
After titles or headings
Examples:
The Benefits of Regular Exercise
5 Tips for Eating Healthy
If an abbreviation ends with a period, DO NOT put a second period in the end.
Examples:
They worked for the U.N. We were told that they were part of a relief mission.