Periods (.)
The period, or full stop, is one of the most fundamental punctuation marks. It signals the end of a complete thought, bringing clarity and structure to your writing.
What Is a Period?
A period (.), also known as a full stop in British English, is a punctuation mark used to indicate the end of a sentence. Its primary job is to signal a full stop, letting the reader know that one complete thought has finished and another may begin.
When to Use a Period
Periods are used in several key situations.
| Usage | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Declarative Sentences | To end a sentence that makes a statement. | "The sun is shining brightly." |
| Mild Imperative Sentences | To end a sentence that gives a gentle command. | "Please close the door." |
| Indirect Questions | To end a sentence that reports a question someone else asked. | "He asked if I was finished with the report." |
Periods in Abbreviations
Periods are also common in shortened forms of words.
| Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Titles | Mr., Mrs., Dr., Prof. |
| Initials | J. K. Rowling, F. Scott Fitzgerald |
| Acronyms & Initialisms | U.S.A., a.m., p.m., etc. |
Note: In British English, periods are often omitted in titles like Mr and Mrs.
Common Mistake: The "Double Period"
Never use two periods at the end of a sentence. If a sentence ends with an abbreviation (like "etc."), that single period serves to end both the abbreviation and the sentence.
Key Takeaways
- Use a period to end a statement, a mild command, or an indirect question.
- Periods are also used in many abbreviations and with initials.
- Avoid using multiple periods at the end of a sentence.
- Proper use of periods ensures your writing is clear and easy to read.
Exercises and Worksheets
Ready to practice? Test your knowledge with these resources.