Considering that the rules for quotation marks are relatively simple (I mean, compared to something really complicated like the comma), it’s surprising how often we see errors with them. In dialog, stuff that’s said aloud goes in quotation marks. “I can’t believe she said that.” (Stuff that’s not said aloud …
Tag: Punctuation
The ‘rules’ about exclamation points
Much advice about the use of exclamation points in fiction comes in the guise of “rules.” I’ve heard several: Never use exclamation points. You may use one exclamation point per book. Only use an exclamation point if the character is shouting. By now you know me well enough to know …
Comma rules, condensed
Misplaced commas are the most common punctuation error I see. We all need help with commas at one time or another. Even experienced writers place them where they’re not needed and omit them where they are.