193
8. Punctuation
8.1. Punctuation is used to clarify the meaning of written or printed
language. Well-planned word order requires a minimum of punc-
tuation. e trend toward less punctuation calls for skillful phrasing
to avoid ambiguity and to ensure exact interpretation. e GPO
S M can o er only general rules of text treatment. A
rigid design or pattern of punctuation cannot be laid down, except
in broad terms. e adopted style, however, must be consistent and
based on sentence structure.
8.2. e general principles governing the use of punctuation are: If it
does not clarify the text it should be omitted; and, in the choice and
placing of punctuation marks, the sole aim should be to bring out
more clearly the author’s thought. Punctuation should aid reading
and prevent misreading.
Apostrophes and possessives
8.3. e possessive case of a singular or plural noun not ending in s is
formed by adding an apostrophe and s. e possessive case of a sin-
gular or plural noun ending in s or with an s sound is formed by
adding an apostrophe only. Some irregular plurals require both an
apostrophe and an s. (For possessives of italicized nouns, see rule
11.6.)
boss’, bosses’ man’s, men’s
child’s, children’s medium’s, media’s
citizen’s, citizens’ people’s, peoples’
Congress’, Congresses’ Essex’s, Essexes’
criterion’s, criteria’s Jones’, Joneses’
Co.’s, Cos.’ Jesus’
erratum’s, errata’s Mars’
hostess’, hostesses’ Dumas’
lady’s, ladies’ Schmitz’
8.4.
In compound nouns, the ’s is added to the element nearest the object
possessed.
comptroller general’s decision attorney at law’s fee
attorneys general’s appointments John White, Jr.’s (no comma) account
Mr. Brown of New York’s motion
194 Chapter 8
8.5. Joint possession is indicated by placing an apostrophe on the last el-
ement of a series, while individual or alternative possession requires
the use of an apostrophe on each element of a series.
soldiers and sailors’ home editor’s or proofreader’s opinion
Brown & Nelson’s store Clinton’s or Bush’s administration
men’s, women’s, and children’s Mrs. Smith’s and Mrs. Allen’s children
clothing the Army’s and the Navy’s work
St. Michael’s Men’s Club master’s and doctor’s degrees
8.6.
In the use of an apostrophe in rm names, the names of organiza-
tions and institutions, the titles of books, and geographic names,
the authentic form is to be followed. (Note use of “St.”)
8.7. Generally, the apostrophe should not be used a er names of coun-
tries and other organized bodies ending in s, or a er words more
descriptive than possessive (not indicating personal possession),
except when plural does not end in s.
8.8. Possessive pronouns do not take an apostrophe.
its yours
ours hers
theirs whose
Masters, Mates & Pilots’ Association
Dentists’ Supply Co. of New York
International Ladies’ Garment
Workers’ Union
Court of St. James’s
St. Peter’s Church
St. Elizabeths Hospital
Johns Hopkins University
Hinds’ Precedents
Harpers Ferry
Hells Canyon
Reader’s Digest
Actor’s Equity Association
but Martha’s Vineyard
United States control
United Nations meeting
Southern States industries
Massachusetts laws
Bureau of Ships report
House of Representatives session
Teamsters Union
editors handbook
syrup producers manual
technicians guide
teachers college
merchants exchange
children’s hospital
Young Men’s Christian Association
but
Veterans’ Administration
(now Department of Veterans
A airs)
Congress’ attitude
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Punctuation 195
8.9. Possessive inde nite or impersonal pronouns require an apostrophe.
each other’s books another’s idea
some others’ plans someone’s guesstimate
one’s home is his castle
8.10.
e singular possessive case is used in such general terms as the
following:
arm’s length fuller’s earth
attorney’s fees miner’s inch
author’s alterations printer’s ink
confectioner’s sugar traveler’s checks
cow’s milk writer’s cramp
distiller’s grain
8.11.
While an apostrophe is used to indicate possession and contrac-
tions, it is not generally necessary to use an apostrophe simply to
show the plural form of most acronyms, initialisms, or abbrevia-
tions, except where clarity and sense demand such inclusion.
49ers
TVers
OKs
MCing
RIFing
RIFs
RIFed
YWCAs
ABCs
1920s
IOUs
10s (thread)
4½ s (bonds)
3s (golf)
2 by 4s
IQs
don’t (do not)
I’ve (I have)
it’s (it is/it has)
ne’er (never)
e’er (ever)
class of ’08 (2008)
spirit of ’76 (1776)
not in her ’70s (age)
better: in her seventies
not during the ’90s
better: during the 1990s or
during the twenties
but
he never crosses his t’s
she fails to dot her i’s
a’s, &’s, 7’s
watch your p’s and q’s
are they l’s or 1’s
the Oakland A’s
a number of s’s
his résumé had too many I’s
196 Chapter 8
When the plural form of an acronym appears in parentheses, a
lower case s is included within the parentheses.
(MPDs) (IPOs)
(MP3s) (SUVs)
(JPEGs)
8.12.
e apostrophe is omitted in abbreviations, and also in shortened
forms of certain other words.
Danl., not Dan’l Halloween, not Hallowe’en
phone, not ’phone copter, not ’copter
coon, not ’coon
possum, not ’possum but ma’am
8.13.
e plural of spelled-out numbers, of words referred to as words,
and of words containing an apostrophe is formed by adding s or es;
but ’s is added to indicate the plural of words used as words if omis-
sion of the apostrophe would cause di culty in reading.
twos, threes, sevens yeses and noes
ands, ifs, and buts yeas and nays
ins and outs
the haves and have-nots but
ups and downs do’s and don’ts
whereases and wherefores which’s and that’s
pros and cons
8.14.
e possessive case is o en used in lieu of an objective phrase even
though ownership is not involved.
1 day’s labor (labor for 1 day) for charity’s sake
12 days’ labor for pity’s sake
2 hours’ traveltime several billion dollars’ worth
a stone’s throw
2 weeks’ pay but $10 billion worth
8.15.
e possessive case is not used in such expressions as the following,
in which one noun modi es another.
day labor (labor by the day) State prison
quartermaster stores State rights
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Punctuation 197
8.16. For euphony, nouns ending in s or ce and followed by a word begin-
ning with s form the possessive by adding an apostrophe only.
for goodness’ sake for acquaintance’ sake
Mr. Hughes’ service for conscience’ sake
for old times’ sake
8.17.
A possessive noun used in an adjective sense requires the addition
of ’s.
He is a friend of John’s. Stern’s is running a sale.
8.18.
A noun preceding a gerund should be in the possessive case.
in the event of Mary’s leaving the ship’s hovering nearby
Brackets
Brackets, in pairs, are used—
8.19. In transcripts, congressional hearings, the Congressional Record,
testimony in courtwork, etc., to enclose interpolations that are not
speci cally a part of the original quotation, such as a correction,
explanation, omission, editorial comment, or a caution that an error
is reproduced literally.
We found this to be true at the Government Printing O ce [GPO].
He came on the 3d [2d] of July.
Our conference [lasted] 2 hours.
e general [Washington] ordered him to leave.
e paper was as follows [reads]:
I do not know. [Continues reading:]
[Chorus of “Mr. Chairman.”]
ey fooled only themselves. [Laughter.]
Our party will always serve the people [applause] in spite of the opposition
[loud applause]. (If more than one bracketed interpolation, both are in-
cluded within the sentence.)
e W. He did it that way [indicating].
Q. Do you know these men [handing witness a list]?
e bill had not been paid. [Italic added.] or [Emphasis added.]
e statue [sic] was on the statute books.
e W. is matter is classi ed. [Deleted.]
[Deleted.]
Mr. J. Hold up your hands. [Show of hands.]
Answer [a er examining list]. Yes; I do.
Q. [Continuing.]
A. [Reads:]
198 Chapter 8
A. [Interrupting.]
[Discussion o the record.]
[Pause.]
e W [interrupting]. It is known——
Mr. J [continuing]. Now let us take the next item.
Mr. S [presiding]. Do you mean that literally?
Mr. J [interposing]. Absolutely.
[ e matter referred to is as follows:]
e C [to Mr. Smith].
e C [reading]:
Mr. K [to the chairman]. From 15 to 25 percent.
[Objected to.]
[Mr. Smith nods.]
[Mr. Smith aside.]
[Mr. Smith makes further statement o the record.]
Mr. J [for Mr. Smith].
A V F A. Speak up.
S V. Quiet!
8.20.
In bills, contracts, laws, etc., to indicate matter that is to be
omitted.
8.21. In mathematics, to denote that enclosed matter is to be treated as a
unit.
8.22. When matter in brackets makes more than one paragraph, start
each paragraph with a bracket and place the closing bracket at end
of last paragraph.
Colon
e colon is used—
8.23. Before a nal clause that extends or ampli es preceding matter.
Give up conveniences; do not demand special privileges; do not stop work:
these are necessary while we are at war.
Railroading is not a variety of outdoor sport: it is service.
8.24.
To introduce formally any matter that forms a complete sentence,
question, or quotation.
e following question came up for discussion: What policy should be adopted?
She said: “I believe the time is now or never.” [When a direct quotation follows
that has more than a few words.]
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Punctuation 199
ere are three factors, as follows: First, military preparation; second, indus-
trial mobilization; and third, manpower.
8.25.
A er a salutation.
M D S:
Ladies and Gentlemen:
To Whom It May Concern:
8.26.
In expressing clock time.
2:40 p.m.
8.27.
A er introductory lines in lists, tables, and leaderwork, if subentries
follow.
Seward Peninsula:
Council district:
Northern Light Mining Co.
Wild Goose Trading Co.
Fairhaven district: Alaska Dredging Association (single subitem runs in).
Seward Peninsula: Council district (single subitem runs in):
Northern Light Mining Co.
Wild Goose Trading Co.
8.28.
In Biblical and other citations.
Luke 4:3.
I Corinthians 13:13.
Journal of Education 3:342–358.
8.29.
In bibliographic references, between place of publication and name
of publisher.
Congressional Directory. Washington: U.S. Government Printing O ce.
8.30.
To separate book titles and subtitles.
Financial Aid for College Students: Graduate
Germany Revisited: Education in the Federal Republic
8.31.
In imprints before the year (en space each side of colon).
U.S. Government Printing O ce
Washington : 2008
8.32.
In proportions.
Concrete mixed 5:3:1
but 5–2–1 or 5-2-1 (when so in copy)
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200 Chapter 8
8.33. In double colon as ratio sign.
1:2::3:6
Comma
e comma is used—
8.34. To separate two words or gures that might otherwise be
misunderstood.
Instead of hundreds, thousands came.
Instead of 20, 50 came.
December 7, 1941.
In 2003, 400 men were dismissed.
To John, Smith was very kind.
What the di culty is, is not known.
but He suggested that that committee be appointed.
8.35.
Before a direct quotation of only a few words following an introduc-
tory phrase.
He said, “Now or never.”
8.36.
To indicate the omission of a word or words.
en we had much; now, nothing.
8.37.
A er each of a series of coordinate qualifying words.
short, swi streams; but short tributary streams
8.38.
Between an introductory modifying phrase and the subject
modi ed.
Beset by the enemy, they retreated.
8.39.
Before and a er Jr., Sr., Esq., Ph.D., F.R.S., Inc., etc., within a sen-
tence except where possession is indicated.
Henry Smith, Jr., chairman but
Peter Johns, F.R.S., London John Smith 2d (or II); Smith, John, II
Washington, DC, schools Mr. Smith, Junior, also spoke
Motorola, Inc., factory (where only last name is used)
Brown, A.H., Jr. (not Brown, Jr., A.H.) Alexandria, VA’s waterfront
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Punctuation 201
8.40. To set o parenthetic words, phrases, or clauses.
Mr. Je erson, who was then Secretary of State, favored the location of the
National Capital at Washington.
It must be remembered, however, that the Government had no guarantee.
It is obvious, therefore, that this o ce cannot function.
e atom bomb, which was developed at the Manhattan project, was rst
used in World War II.
eir high morale might, he suggested, have caused them to put success of
the team above the reputation of the college.
e restriction is laid down in title IX, chapter 8, section 15, of the code.
but e man who fell [restrictive clause] broke his back.
e dam that gave way [restrictive clause] was poorly constructed.
He therefore gave up the search.
8.41.
To set o words or phrases in apposition or in contrast.
Mr. Green, the lawyer, spoke for the defense.
Mr. Jones, attorney for the plainti , signed the petition.
Mr. Smith, not Mr. Black, was elected.
James Roosevelt, Democrat, of California.
Jean’s sister, Joyce, was the eldest. (Jean had one sister.)
but Jonathan’s brother Moses Taylor was appointed. (Jonathan had more than
one brother.)
8.42.
A er each member within a series of three or more words, phrases,
letters, or gures used with and, or, or nor.
red, white, and blue
horses, mules, and cattle; but horses and mules and cattle
by the bolt, by the yard, or in remnants
a, b, and c
neither snow, rain, nor heat
2 days, 3 hours, and 4 minutes (series); but 70 years 11 months 6 days (age)
8.43.
Before the conjunction in a compound sentence containing two or
more independent clauses, each of which could have been written as
a simple sentence.
Fish, mollusks, and crustaceans were plentiful in the lakes, and turtles fre-
quented the shores.
e boy went home alone, and his sister remained with the crowd.
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202 Chapter 8
8.44. A er a noun or phrase in direct address.
Senator, will the measure be defeated?
Mr. Chairman, I will reply to the gentleman later.
but Yes, sir; he did see it.
No, ma’am; I do not recall.
8.45.
A er an interrogative clause, followed by a direct question.
You are sure, are you not? You will go, will you not?
8.46.
Between the title of a person and the name of an organization in the
absence of the words of or of the.
Chief, Division of Finance colonel, 12th Cavalry Regiment
chairman, Committee on president, University of Virginia
Appropriations
8.47.
Inside closing quotation mark.
He said “four,” not “ ve.”
“Freedom is an inherent right,” he insisted.
Items marked “A,” “B,” and “C,” inclusive, were listed.
8.48.
To separate thousands and millions in numerical gures.
4,230 but 1,000,000,000 is more clearly
50,491 illustrated as 1 billion
1,250,000
8.49.
A er the year in complete dates (month, day, year) within a
sentence.
e dates of September 11, 1993, to June 12, 1994, were erroneous.
is was re ected in the June 13, 2007, report.
but Production for June 2008 was normal.
e 10 February 2008 deadline passed.
e comma is omitted—
8.50. Between superior gures or letters in footnote references.
Numerous instances may be cited.
1 2
Data are based on October production.
a b
Punctuation 203
8.51. Before ZIP (Zone Improvement Plan) Code postal-delivery
number.
Government Printing O ce, Washington, DC 20401–0003
East Rochester, OH 44625–9701
8.52.
Between month, holiday, or season and year in dates.
8.53. Between the name and number of an organization.
Columbia Typographical Union No. 101–12
American Legion Post No. 33
8.54.
In fractions, in decimals, and in serial numbers, except patent
numbers.
½
1.0947
page 2632
202–275–2303 (telephone number)
1721–1727 St. Clair Avenue
Executive Order 11242
motor No. 189463
1450 kilocycles; 1100 meters
8.55.
Between two nouns one of which identi es the other.
e Children’s Bureau’s booklet “Infant Care” continues to be a bestseller.
8.56.
Before an ampersand (&).
Brown, Wilson & Co.
Mine, Mill & Smelter Workers
8.57.
Before abbreviations of compass directions.
6430 Princeton Dr. SW.
8.58.
In bibliographies, between name of the publication and volume or
similar number.
American Library Association Bulletin 34:238, April 1940.
June 2008
22d of May 2008
February and March 2008
January, February, and March 2008
January 24 A.D. 2008; 15th of June
A.D. 2008
150 B.C.
Labor Day 2006
Easter Sunday 2006
5 January 2006 (military usage)
spring 2007
autumn 2007
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204 Chapter 8
8.59. Wherever possible without danger of ambiguity.
$2 gold
Executive Order No. 21
General Order No. 12; but General Orders, No. 12
Public Law 85–1
He graduates in the year 2010 (not the year 2,010)
My age is 30 years 6 months 12 days.
John Lewis 2d (or II)
Murphy of Illinois; Murphy of New York (where only last name is used)
Carroll of Carrollton; Henry of Navarre (person closely identi ed with place);
but Clyde Leo Downs, of Maryland; President Levin, of Yale University
James Bros. et al.; but James Bros., Nelson Co., et al. (last element of series)
Dash
A 1-em dash is used—
8.60. To mark a sudden break or abrupt change in thought.
He said—and no one contradicted him—“ e battle is lost.”
If the bill should pass—which God forbid!—the service will be wrecked.
e auditor—shall we call him a knave or a fool?—approved an inaccurate
statement.
8.61.
To indicate an interruption or an un nished word or sentence. A
2-em dash is used when the interruption is by a person other than
the speaker, and a 1-em dash will show self-interruption. Note that
extracts must begin with a true paragraph. Following extracts, col-
loquy must start as a paragraph.
“Such an idea can scarcely be——”
“ e word ‘donation’——”
“ e word ‘dona’——”
He said: “Give me lib——”
e bill reads “repeal,” not “am——”
Q. Did you see——
A. No, sir.
Mr. B [reading]: “ e report goes on to say that”—Observe this
closely—“during the scal year * * *.”
8.62.
Instead of commas or parentheses if the meaning may thus be
clari ed.
ese are shore deposits—gravel, sand, and clay—but marine sediments
underlie them.
Punctuation 205
8.63. Before a nal clause that summarizes a series of ideas.
Freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom from want, freedom from
fear—these are the fundamentals of moral world order.
8.64.
A er an introductory phrase reading into the following lines and
indicating repetition of such phrase.
I recommend—
at we submit them for review and corrections;
at we then accept them as corrected; and
at we also publish them.
8.65.
With a preceding question mark, in lieu of a colon.
How can you explain this?—“Fee paid, $5.”
8.66.
To precede a credit line or a run-in credit or signature.
Lay the proud usurpers low!
Tyrants fall in every foe!
Liberty’s in every blow!
Let us do or die!
—Robert Burns.
Every man’s work shall be made manifest.—I Corinthians 3:13.
is statement is open to question.—G H. F.
8.67.
A er a run-in sidehead.
8.68. To separate run-in questions and answers in testimony.
Q. Did he go?—A. No.
A 1-em dash is not used—
8.69. At the beginning of any line of type, except as shown in rule 8.66.
8.70. Immediately a er a comma, colon, or semicolon.
A 3-em dash is used—
8.71. In bibliographies to indicate repetition.
Powell, James W., Jr., Hunting in Virginia’s lowlands. 1972. 200 pp.
——— Fishing o Delmarva. 1972. 28 pp.
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206 Chapter 8
An en dash is used—
8.72. In a combination of (1) gures, (2) capital letters, or (3) gures and
capital letters. An en dash, not a hyphen, is used, even when such
terms are adjectival modi ers.
gures:
5–20 (bonds)
85–1—85–20 (Public laws. Note em dash between two elements with en
dashes)
1–703–765–6593 (telephone number)
230–20–8030 (Social Security number)
$15–$25 (range)
capital letters:
WTOP–AM–FM–TV (radio and television stations)
CBS–TV
AFL–CIO (union merger)
C–SPAN (satellite television)
gures and capitals:
6–A (exhibit identi cation)
DC–14 (airplane)
I–95 (interstate roadway)
4–H (Club)
LK–66–A(2)–74 (serial number)
but Rule 13e–4
section 12(a)–(b) (en dash used for the word “to”)
ACF-Brill Motors Co. (hyphen with capital letters and a word)
loran-C (hyphen with lowercase word and capital letter)
MiG-25 (hyphen with mixed letters with gure)
ALL-AMERICAN ESSAY CONTEST (hyphen in capitalized heading)
Four Corners Monument, AZ-NM-UT-CO (hyphen with two-letter state
abbreviations)
8.73.
In the absence of the word to when denoting a span of time.
2005–2008 January–June Monday–Friday
An en dash is not used—
8.74. For to when the word from precedes the rst of two related gures
or expressions.
From June 1 to July 30, 2005; not from June 1–July 30, 2005
8.75.
For and when the word between precedes the rst of two related
gures or expressions.
Between 2000 and 2008; not between 2000–08
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Punctuation 207
Ellipses
8.76. ree asterisks (preferred form) or three periods, separated by en
spaces, are used to denote an ellipsis within a sentence, at the begin-
ning or end of a sentence, or in two or more consecutive sentences.
To achieve faithful reproduction of excerpt material, editors using
period ellipses should indicate placement of the terminal period in
relation to an ellipsis at the end of a sentence. Note, in the following
examples, the additional spacing necessary to clearly de ne com-
mas and the terminal period when period ellipses are employed.
e Senate having tried Andrew Johnson, President of the United States,
upon articles of impeachment exhibited against him by the House of
Representatives, and two-thirds of the Senators present not having found him
guilty of the charges contained in the second, third, and eleventh articles of
impeachment, it is therefore
Ordered and adjudged. at the said Andrew Johnson, President of the
United States be, and he is, acquitted of the charges in said articles made and
set forth.
e Senate having tried Andrew Johnson * * * upon articles of impeach-
ment * * * and two-thirds of the Senators present not having found him
guilty of the charges * * *, it is therefore
Ordered and adjudged. at the said Andrew Johnson, President of the
United States be * * * acquitted of the charges * * *.
e Senate having tried Andrew Johnson . . . upon articles of impeachment
. . . and two-thirds of the Senators present not having found him guilty of the
charges . . . , it is therefore
Ordered and adjudged. at the said Andrew Johnson, President of the
United States be . . . acquitted of the charges. . . .
8.77.
Ellipses are not overrun alone at the end of a paragraph.
8.78. When periods are not speci cally requested for ellipses in copy that
has both periods and asterisks, asterisks will be used.
8.79. A line of asterisks indicates an omission of one or more entire para-
graphs. In 26½-pica or wider measure, a line of “stars” means seven
asterisks indented 2 ems at each end of the line, with the remaining
space divided evenly between the asterisks. In measures less than
26½ picas, ve asterisks are used. Quotation marks are not used
on a line of asterisks in quoted matter. Where an ellipsis line ends a
complete quotation, no closing quote is used.
* * * * * * *
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208 Chapter 8
8.80. Indented matter in 26½-pica or wider measure also requires a
seven-asterisk line to indicate the omission of one or more entire
paragraphs.
8.81. If an omission occurs in the last part of a paragraph immediately
before a line of asterisks, three asterisks are used, in addition to the
line of asterisks, to indicate such an omission.
8.82. Equalize spacing above and below an ellipsis line.
Exclamation point
8.83. e exclamation point is used to mark surprise, incredulity, admi-
ration, appeal, or other strong emotion which may be expressed
even in a declarative or interrogative sentence.
Who shouted, “All aboard!” [Note omission of question mark.]
“Great!” he shouted. [Note omission of comma.]
He acknowledged the fatal error!
How breathtakingly beautiful!
Timber!
Mayday! Mayday!
8.84.
In direct address, either to a person or a personi ed object, O is used
without an exclamation point, or other punctuation; but if strong
feeling is expressed, an exclamation point is placed at the end of the
statement.
O my friend, let us consider this subject impartially.
O Lord, save y people!
8.85.
In exclamations without direct address or appeal, oh is used instead
of O, and the exclamation point is omitted.
Oh, but the gentleman is mistaken.
Oh dear; the time is so short.
Hyphen
e hyphen (a punctuation mark, not an element in the spelling of words)
is used—
8.86. To connect the elements of certain compound words. (See Chap-
ter 6 “Compounding Rules.”)
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Punctuation 209
8.87. To indicate continuation of a word divided at the end of a line. (See
Word Division, supplement to the S M.)
8.88. Between the letters of a spelled word.
e Style Board changed New Jerseyite to New J-e-r-s-e-y-a-n.
A native of Halifax is a H-a-l-i-g-o-n-i-a-n.
e Chinese repressive action took place in T-i-a-n-a-n-m-e-n Square.
8.89.
To separate elements of chemical formulas.
e hyphen, as an element, may be used—
8.90. To represent letters deleted or illegible words in copy.
Oakland’s - - bonic plague Richard Emory H - - - -
Parentheses
Parentheses are used—
8.91. To set o important matter not intended to be part of the main
statement that is not a grammatical element of the sentence. In
colloquy, brackets must be substituted.
is case (124 U.S. 329) is not relevant.
e result (see g. 2) is most surprising.
e United States is the principal purchaser (by value) of these exports (23 per-
cent in 1995 and 19 percent in 1996).
8.92.
To enclose a parenthetic clause where the interruption is too great to
be indicated by commas.
You can nd it neither in French dictionaries (at any rate, not in Littré) nor in
English dictionaries.
8.93.
To enclose an explanatory word not part of a written or printed
statement.
the Winchester (VA) Star; but the Star of Winchester, VA
Portland (OR) Chamber of Commerce; but Athens, GA, schools
8.94.
To enclose letters or numbers designating items in a series, either at
the beginning of paragraphs or within a paragraph.
e order of delivery will be: (a) Food, (b) clothing, and (c) tents and other
housing equipment.
You will observe that the sword is (1) old fashioned, (2) still sharp, and (3) un-
usually light for its size.
Paragraph 7(B)(1)(a) will be found on page 6. (Note parentheses closed up.)
210 Chapter 8
8.95. To enclose a gure inserted to con rm a written or printed state-
ment given in words if double form is speci cally requested.
is contract shall be completed in sixty (60) days.
8.96.
A reference in parentheses at the end of a sentence is placed before
the period, unless it is a complete sentence in itself.
e specimen exhibits both phases (pl. 14, A, B).
e individual cavities show great variation. (See pl. 4.)
8.97.
If a sentence contains more than one parenthetic reference, the one
at the end is placed before the period.
is sandstone (see pl. 6) is in every county of the State (see pl. 1).
8.98.
When a gure is followed by a letter in parentheses, no space is used
between the gure and the opening parenthesis; but, if the letter is
not in parentheses and the gure is repeated with each letter, the
letter is closed up with the gure.
15(a). Classes, grades, and sizes.
15a. Classes, grades, and sizes.
8.99.
If both a gure and a letter in parentheses are used before each
paragraph, a period and an en space are used a er the closing paren-
thesis. If the gure is not repeated before each letter in parentheses
but is used only before the rst letter, the period is placed a er the
gure. However, if the gure is not repeated before each letter in pa-
rentheses and no period is used, space is inserted a er the number
if at least one other lettered subsection appears.
15(a). When the gure is used before the letter in each paragraph—
15(b). e period is placed a er the closing parenthesis.
15. (a) When the gure is used before the letter in the rst paragraph but not
repeated with subsequent letters—
(b) e period is used a er the gure only.
Sec. 12 (a) When no period is used and a letter in parentheses appears a er a
numbered item—
(b) Space must be used a er the number if at least one other lettered subsection
is shown.
8.100.
Note position of the period relative to closing parenthesis:
e vending stand sells a variety of items (sandwiches, beverages, cakes, etc.).
e vending stand sells a variety of items (sandwiches, beverages, cakes, etc.
(sometimes ice cream)).
Punctuation 211
e vending stand sells a variety of items. ( ese include sandwiches, bever-
ages, cakes, etc. (6).)
8.101.
To enclose bylines in congressional work.
(By Harvey Hagman, archeological correspondent)
8.102.
When matter in parentheses makes more than one paragraph, start
each paragraph with a parenthesis and place the closing parenthesis
at the end of the last paragraph.
Period
e period is used—
8.103. A er a declarative sentence that is not exclamatory or a er an im-
perative sentence.
Stars are suns.
He was employed by Sampson & Co.
Do not be late.
On with the dance.
8.104.
A er an indirect question or a er a question intended as a sugges-
tion and not requiring an answer.
Tell me how he did it.
May we hear from you.
May we ask prompt payment.
8.105.
In place of a closing parenthesis a er a letter or number denoting a
series.
a. Bread well baked 1. Punctuate freely
b. Meat cooked rare 2. Compound sparingly
c. Cubed apples stewed 3. Index thoroughly
8.106.
Sometimes to indicate ellipsis.
8.107. A er a run-in sidehead.
Conditional subjunctive.— e conditional subjunctive is required for all
unreal and doubtful conditions.
2. Peacetime preparation.—a. e Chairman of the National Security
Resources Board, etc.
2. Peacetime preparation—Industrial mobilization plans.— e Chairman of
the National Security Resources Board, etc.
2. Peacetime preparation.—Industrial mobilization.— e Chairman of the
National Security Resources Board, etc.
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212 Chapter 8
62. Determination of types.—a. Statement of characteristics.—Before types of
equipment, etc.
Steps in planning for procurement.—(1) Determination of needs.—To plan
for the procurement of such arms, etc.
62. Determination of types.—(a) Statement of characteristics.—Before, etc.
DETERMINATION OF TYPES.—Statement of characteristics.—Before
types of, etc.
N.— e source material was furnished.
but Source: U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census.
8.108.
Paragraphs and subparagraphs may be arranged according to the
following scheme. e sequence is not xed, and variations, in ad-
dition to the use of center and side heads or indented paragraphs,
may be adopted, depending on the number of parts.
I. Outlines can begin with a capital Roman numeral.
A. e number of levels and the width of the column determine alignment
and indention.
1. A set space (en space) following the identi er aids alignment.
a. Usually, typefaces and sizes are chosen to agree with the hierarchy of
the head breakdowns.
(1) Aligning runover lines with the rst word which follows the
number or letter aids readability.
(a) It is important to vary (alternate) the use of letters and num-
bers in any outline.
(i) e lowercase Roman numerals (i), (ii), etc. may be used as
parts of the outline or to identify subparts of any previous
parts.
(aa) When absolutely necessary, double (or triple) lowercase
letters may be used.
II. Where not needed, the capital Roman numerals may be discarded and the
outline can begin with the letter A. As in any composition, consistency in
indentions and order is essential.
8.109.
To separate integers from decimals in a single expression.
13.75 percent 1.25 meters
$3.50 0.08 mile
8.110.
In continental European languages, to indicate thousands.
1.317 72.190.175
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Punctuation 213
8.111. A er abbreviations, unless otherwise speci ed. (See Chapter 9,
“Abbreviations and Letter Symbols.”)
Apr. RR.
g. but
Ph.D. m (meter)
NE. (Northeast) kc (kilocycle)
SSE. (South-Southeast) NY (New York)
8.112.
A er legends and explanatory matter beneath illustrations. Legends
without descriptive language do not receive periods.
Figure 1.—Schematic drawing.
Figure 1.—Continued.
but Figure 1 (without legend, no period)
8.113.
A er Article 1, Section 1, etc., at the beginning of paragraphs.
A center period is sometimes used—
8.114. To indicate multiplication. (Use of a multiplication sign is
preferable.)
a•b a⳯b
e period is omitted—
8.115. A er—
Lines in title pages
Center, side, and running heads; but is not omitted a er run-in
sideheads
Continued lines
Boxheads of tables
Scienti c, chemical, or other symbols
is rule does not apply to abbreviation periods.
8.116. A er a quotation mark that is preceded by a period.
She said: “I believe the time is now or never.”
8.117.
A er letters used as names without speci c designation.
O cer B, Subject A, Brand X, etc.
A said to B that all is well.
Mr. A told Mr. B that the case was closed.
Mr. X (for unknown or censored name).
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214 Chapter 8
but Mr. A. [for Mr. Andrews]. I do not want to go.
Mr. K. [for Mr. King]. e meeting is adjourned.
8.118.
A er a middle initial which is merely a letter and not an abbrevia-
tion of a name.
Daniel D Tompkins
Ross T McIntire
but Harry S. Truman (President Truman’s preference)
8.119.
A er a short name which is not an abbreviation of the longer form.
Alex Mac
Ed Sam
8.120.
A er Roman numerals used as ordinals.
King George V Super Bowl XLII
Apollo XII insigne
8.121.
A er words and incomplete statements listed in columns. Full-
measure matter is not to be regarded as a column.
8.122. Explanatory matter should be set in 6 point type under leaders or
rules.
.................................... .................................... ....................................
(Name) (Address) (Position)
8.123. Immediately before leaders, even if an abbreviation precedes the
leaders.
Question mark
e question mark is used—
8.124. To indicate a direct query, even if not in the form of a question.
Did he do it?
He did what?
Can the money be raised? is the question.
Who asked, “Why?” [Note single question mark.]
“Did you hurt yourself, my son?” she asked.
8.125.
To express more than one query in the same sentence.
Can he do it? or you? or anyone?
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Punctuation 215
8.126. To express doubt.
He said the boy was 8(?) feet tall. (No space before question mark.)
e statue(?) was on the statute books.
e scienti c identi cation Dorothia? was noted. (Roman “?”.)
Quotation marks
Quotation marks are used—
8.127. To enclose direct quotations. (Each part of an interrupted quotation
begins and ends with quotation marks.)
e answer is “No.”
He said, “John said, ‘No.’ ’’ (Note thin space between single and double
closing quotes.)
“John,” asked Henry, “why do you go?”
8.128.
To enclose any matter following such terms as entitled, the word,
the term, marked, designated, classi ed, named, endorsed, cited as,
referred to as, or signed; however, quotation marks are not used to
enclose expressions following the terms known as, called, so-called,
etc., unless such expressions are misnomers or slang.
Congress passed the act entitled “An act * * *.”
A er the word “treaty,” insert a comma.
Of what does the item “Miscellaneous debts” consist?
e column “Imports from foreign countries” was not * * *.
e document will be marked “Exhibit No. 21;” but e document may be
made exhibit No. 21.
e check was endorsed “John Adamson.”
It was signed “John.”
but Beryllium is known as glucinium in some European countries.
It was called pro t and loss.
e so-called investigating body.
8.129.
To enclose titles of addresses, articles, awards, books, captions,
editorials, essays, headings, subheadings, headlines, hearings, mo-
tion pictures and plays (including television and radio programs),
operas, papers, short poems, reports, songs, studies, subjects, and
themes. All principal words are to be capitalized.
An address on “Uranium-235 in the Atomic Age”
e article “Germany Revisited” appeared in the last issue.
He received the “Man of the Year” award.
“ e Conquest of Mexico,” a published work (book)
Under the caption “Long-Term Treasurys Rise”
e subject was discussed in “Punctuation.” (chapter heading)
216 Chapter 8
It will be found in “Part XI: Early ought.”
e editorial “Haphazard Budgeting”
“Compensation,” by Emerson (essay)
“United States To Appoint Representative to U.N.” (heading for headline)
In “Search for Paradise” (motion picture); “South Paci c” (play)
A paper on “Constant-Pressure Combustion” was read.
“O Captain! My Captain!” (short poem)
e report “Atomic Energy: What It Means to the Nation”; but annual report
of the Public Printer
is was followed by the singing of “ e Star-Spangled Banner.”
Under the subhead “Sixty Days of Turmoil” will be found * * *.
e subject (or theme) of the conference is “Peaceful Uses of Atomic Energy.”
also Account 5, “Management fees.”
Under the heading “Management and Operation.”
Under the appropriation “Building of ships, Navy.”
8.130.
At the beginning of each paragraph of a quotation, but at the end of
the last paragraph only.
8.131. To enclose a letter or communication that bears both date and
signature.
8.132. To enclose misnomers, slang expressions, sobriquets, coined words,
or ordinary words used in an arbitrary way.
His report was “bunk.”
It was a “gentlemen’s agreement.”
e “invisible government” is responsible.
George Herman “Babe” Ruth.
but He voted for the lameduck amendment.
8.133.
To close up characters except when they precede a fraction or an
apostrophe or precede or follow a superior gure or letter, in which
case a thin space is used. A thin space is used to separate double and
single quotation marks.
Quotation marks are not used—
8.134. In poetry. e lines of a poem should align on the le , those that
rhyme taking the same indention.
Why seek to scale Mount Everest,
Queen of the air?
Why strive to crown that cruel crest
And deathward dare?
Punctuation 217
Said Mallory of dauntless quest:
“Because it’s there.”
8.135.
To enclose titles of works of art: paintings, statuary, etc.
8.136. To enclose names of newspapers or magazines.
8.137. To enclose complete letters having date and signature.
8.138. To enclose extracts that are indented or set in smaller type, or solid
extracts in leaded matter; but indented matter in text that is already
quoted carries quotation marks.
8.139. In indirect quotations.
Tell her yes. He could not say no.
8.140.
Before a display initial which begins a quoted paragraph.
8.141. e comma and the nal period will be placed inside the quotation
marks. Other punctuation marks should be placed inside the quota-
tion marks only if they are a part of the matter quoted.
Ruth said, “I think so.”
“ e President,” he said, “will veto the bill.”
e trainman shouted, “All aboard!”
Who asked, “Why?”
e President suggests that “an early occasion be sought * * *.”
Why call it a “gentlemen’s agreement”?
8.142.
In congressional and certain other classes of work showing amend-
ments, and in courtwork with quoted language, punctuation marks
are printed a er the quotation marks when not a part of the quoted
matter.
Insert the words “growth”, “production”, and “manufacture”.
To be inserted a er the words “cadets, U.S. Coast Guard;”.
Change “February 1, 1983”, to “June 30, 2008”.
“Insert in lieu thereof ‘July 1, 1983,’.”
8.143.
When occurring together, quotation marks should precede footnote
reference numbers.
e commissioner claimed that the award was “unjusti ed.”
1
Kelly’s exact words were: “ e facts in the case prove otherwise.”
2
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218 Chapter 8
8.144. Quotation marks should be limited, if possible, to three sets (double,
single, double).
“ e question in the report is, ‘Can a person who obtains his certi cate of
naturalization by fraud be considered a “bona de” citizen of the United
States?’ ”
Semicolon
e semicolon is used—
8.145. To separate clauses containing commas.
Donald A. Peters, Jr., president of the First National Bank, was also a director
of New York Central; Harvey D. Jones was a director of Oregon Steel Co.
and New York Central; omas W. Harrison, chairman of the board of
McBride & Co., was also on the board of Oregon Steel Co.
Reptiles, amphibians, and predatory mammals swallow their prey whole or
in large pieces, bones included; waterfowl habitually take shell sh entire;
and gal linaceous birds a re prov ided w it h g izzards t hat grind up the hardest
seeds.
Yes, sir; he did see it.
No, sir; I do not recall.
8.146.
To separate statements that are too closely related in meaning to be
written as separate sentences, and also statements of contrast.
Yes; that is right.
No; we received one-third.
It is true in peace; it is true in war.
War is destructive; peace, constructive.
8.147.
To set o explanatory abbreviations or words that summarize or
explain preceding matter.
e industry is related to groups that produce nished goods; i.e., electrical
machinery and transportation equipment.
ere were three metal producers involved; namely, Jones & Laughlin, Armco,
and Kennecott.
e semicolon is not used—
8.148. Where a comma will su ce.
O ces are located in New York, NY, Chicago, IL, and Dallas, TX.
Punctuation 219
Single punctuation
8.149. Single punctuation should be used wherever possible without
ambiguity.
124 U.S. 321 (no comma)
Sir: (no dash)
Joseph replied, “It is a worthwhile e ort.” (no outside period)
Type
8.150. All punctuation marks, including parentheses, brackets, and supe-
rior reference gures, are set to match the type of the words which
they adjoin. A lightface dash is used a er a run-in boldface side-
head followed by lightface matter. Lightface brackets, parentheses,
or quotation marks shall be used when both boldface and lightface
matter are enclosed.
Charts: C&GS 5101 (N.O. 18320), page 282 (see above); N.O. 93491 (Plan);
page 271.
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