Full Stop (.) is a punctuation mark that is used at the end of sentences and is denoted by a small round dot. We use this punctuation mark every day in our writing without thinking more about where and how to use this. Most people are still unaware of using Full Stop (.) Punctuation sometimes they use it when it is not required and sometimes they missed out where there is a need to use it. Here in this blog, we will discuss full-stop punctuation, how we can utilize it, and common mistakes you should be aware of while using it.
Overview of Full Stop Punctuation
Full stop punctuation which is commonly known as a period in American English indicates that one sentence has been completed and we are now ready to move on to the next sentence. At the end of a declarative sentence, we mostly use (.) punctuation mark. Without a full stop, it would be really typical to understand when the first sentence ends and when the other would begin.
You can use full stop both in formal as well as in informal writing. Generally, this punctuation mark is used when the full idea of yours has been expressed and you are now about to express the second one.
When to Use a Full Stop?
Previously we have explained to you different ways where we can use the full stop punctuation mark. Below we will go into more detail and will discuss with the help of examples so that you can better understand where and when to use a (.) full stop.
1: To end a sentence
At the end of your final word, you can put a full stop to indicate that the sentence has been completed. Remember one thing they are used to end the sentences; you can’t use them to end the exclamations and questions.
For Example
- I started my work this afternoon.
- I am going to play now.
- I have attended all the online classes today.
- My favorite color is Sapphire Blue.
- I will take a walk after completing my dinner.
- Hope to work with you soon.
2: Full Stops in Abbreviations
When words or phrases are made shortened by blending them together and omitting some words it is known to be Abbreviations. Full stops are much needed in Abbreviations for example U.S.A (United States of America), Dr. (Doctor), etc.
(…) these dots indicate the absence of words means some part of the word or sentence is missing.
Examples:
- I did my masters in the U.K.
- Prof. George is my computer teacher.
- I have to reach my office by 8 a.m sharp.
- I asked Mr. Peter to return my books.
3: At the end of reported questions.
The reported question is to give the answer to some person that another person has asked us. The full stop (.) punctuation is also used at the end of reported questions.
Example:
- I asked Mr. Penn if he is going along with us.
- Gales asked if I could help him out with his tuition work.
- He asked me to return his books.
4: As a Decimal Point
When we try to show any of the numbers in decimals we use full stops.
Example:
- He won a prize of 1.6 Million dollars.
- This time our sales have increased from 76.6% to 86.9%.
Read- What Does 'WYLL' Mean?
Rules to follow while using full stop punctuation (.)
- Full stops are basically used at the end of sentences.
- There should not be any space left between the last letter and a full stop.
- Always keep in mind to have one space between the full stop and the first letter of the next sentence that you are going to begin.
- When you start any word after the full stop make sure that the first letter of that word should be capitalized.
When you are not required to use Full Stop
You should not use a full stop in a case when other punctuation mark suits best to the sentence. In case of questions and exclamations, you should restrict using full stops.
Wrap Up:
If talking about the terms of pronunciation, you are not required to pronounce full stop but it is indicated by the (.) dot at the end of every sentence that simply indicates a brief pause in speech. At last, we can only say that a full stop is a very simple yet essential punctuation mark in written English.
