Module 6: Common Punctuation Mistakes

They may be tiny, but punctuation marks wield the power to transform the meaning of a sentence. Even minor punctuation errors (like, too, many, commas) can distract readers and make a piece of writing sound unprofessional. By learning how to use punctuation effectively, you can make sure that your writing – or your client’s – is clear and precise and leaves the right impression every time. 

How This Module Works

Remembering the many rules of punctuation can feel like an impossible task. In this module, we’ll teach you how to spot and fix some of the most common punctuation errors. We’ll clarify commas, analyze apostrophes, demystify dashes…and much more besides!

Why Does Punctuation Matter?

You’ve probably heard the phrase: ‘It’s not what you say, but how you say it’. The same sentiment applies to the written word.

From work emails to college essays, fiction manuscripts to marketing materials…punctuation has a significant impact on the way your words are received. The right punctuation can help your words shine, conveying tone and ensuring clarity. The wrong punctuation can cause confusion and undermine the credibility of your message. This makes the ability to apply punctuation with ease a valuable skill for anyone to learn!

As a professional proofreader, clients will expect you to be a punctuation pro. If you know the rules inside out, you’ll be able to provide an invaluable service – whatever the document type or niche.

Tips on Using Punctuation Correctly

What is an Oxford comma? Should punctuation go inside or outside of quotation marks? How many exclamation points are too many? These are just some of the frequently-asked-questions we answer over on our punctuation tips blog!