The age-old question of when to put a period before a quote has sparked debate among writers and grammarians for years. The rules can seem complex, but fear not, for we’re about to break them down in a straightforward and easy-to-understand manner.
Understanding the Basics
In American English, the general rule is to place commas and periods inside quotation marks. This is known as the “logical” or “traditional” approach. For example:
The teacher asked, “What is your name?”
In this instance, the period is placed inside the quotation mark because it’s part of the quoted material.
Periods Before Quotes: The Exception
However, there is an exception to this rule. When a quoted sentence is followed by a parenthetical remark or a citation, the period is placed outside the quotation mark. This is where things can get tricky:
The company’s mission statement is “to provide excellent customer service” (as stated on their website).
In this case, the period is placed outside the quotation mark because it’s not part of the quoted material.
British English: A Different Approach
It’s worth noting that British English follows a different set of rules. In the UK, Australia, and other countries that use British English, the comma or period is often placed outside the quotation mark. This is known as the “typographical” approach:
The teacher asked, “what is your name”?
In this example, the period is placed outside the quotation mark, which is the preferred style in British English.
Other Punctuation Marks: Commas and Semicolons
When it comes to other punctuation marks like commas and semicolons, the rules are a bit different. Commas are usually placed inside the quotation mark, while semicolons are placed outside:
The teacher asked, “What is your name,” and then proceeded to take attendance.
The company’s mission statement is “to provide excellent customer service”; however, they have been struggling to meet this goal.
The Importance of Consistency
As with any grammatical rule, consistency is key. It’s essential to stick to one style throughout your writing, whether it’s American or British English. This will help avoid confusion and ensure that your writing is clear and concise.
In Conclusion
To summarize, the rules for placing periods before quotes are as follows:
- In American English, place commas and periods inside quotation marks, unless the quoted sentence is followed by a parenthetical remark or citation.
- In British English, place commas and periods outside the quotation mark.
- Be consistent in your writing style, and make sure to follow the same rules throughout.
By following these simple guidelines, you’ll be able to navigate the complex world of quotation marks with confidence.
What is the general rule for placing periods before quotes in American English?
+In American English, the general rule is to place commas and periods inside quotation marks.
When is it acceptable to place a period outside a quotation mark?
+A period can be placed outside a quotation mark when the quoted sentence is followed by a parenthetical remark or citation.
What is the difference between American and British English when it comes to quotation marks?
+American English places commas and periods inside quotation marks, while British English places them outside.
By mastering the rules of quotation marks, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a proficient writer, able to convey your ideas with clarity and precision. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep writing and refining your skills!
