Periods (.)
* Indicates the end of a sentence.
* Can be used after abbreviations (e.g., Dr., U.S.A.).
Commas (,)
* Separates items in a list.
* Separates independent clauses in a compound sentence.
* Introduces a dependent clause.
* Sets off introductory phrases or words.
Question Marks (?)
* Indicates a question.
Exclamation Points (!)
* Indicates strong emotion or emphasis.
Semicolons (;)
* Joins two independent clauses closely related in meaning.
* Separates items in a list when the items themselves contain commas.
Colons (:)
* Introduces a list, explanation, or quotation.
Apostrophes (')
* Shows possession (e.g., the dog's bone).
* Creates contractions (e.g., can't, they're).
Quotation Marks (" ")
* Enclose direct speech or a quotation.
* Can be used to indicate a title or a word used in a special sense.
Parentheses ( )
* Enclose supplemental or explanatory information.
Brackets [ ]
* Used to enclose explanations within a quotation.
* Used to insert or replace words in a quoted passage.
Hyphens (-)
* Joins words to form compound words or phrases.
* Shows a break in a word at the end of a line.
Dashes (–) / (—)
* Used for emphasis or to set off a phrase.
Ellipses (...)
* Indicate omitted words or a pause in speech.
Slash (/)
* Used to separate alternatives.
* Can indicate a date range (e.g., 1990/1991).
Other Punctuation:
* Asterisk (*) - Can be used for footnotes or to indicate omitted letters in a word.
* Underscore (_) - Can be used for emphasis or to indicate a space for a letter that is missing.
Remember, the best way to understand punctuation is to practice using it in your own writing. There are always going to be exceptions and nuanced uses, so it's important to consult a style guide or grammar reference if you're unsure about a specific case.