Does The Period Go Inside The Quotes

Does the Period Go Inside or Outside the Quotation Marks? The Definitive Guide

The placement of punctuation marks in relation to quotation marks is a common grammar question, especially concerning periods. Many struggle to remember the correct style, leading to inconsistencies in their writing. This article provides a definitive guide, explaining the rules and clearing up any confusion about where the period should go – inside or outside the quotation marks?

The short answer? It depends on your style guide. However, there are two primary styles: American and British. Understanding the nuances of each will equip you to make the correct choice in your writing.

American Style: Period Inside the Quotes

In American English, periods, commas, and other internal punctuation marks generally go inside the closing quotation marks. This is the style preferred by most American style guides, including the Chicago Manual of Style and Associated Press Stylebook.

• Example: He said, "The meeting is at 3 p.m." Notice the period is inside the quotation marks.

This rule applies regardless of whether the quote is a complete sentence or a fragment.

• Example (fragment): She exclaimed, "Absolutely!"

• Example (complete sentence): He whispered, "The treasure is buried beneath the old oak tree."

British Style: Period Outside the Quotes

British English, on the other hand, typically places periods and commas outside the closing quotation marks, unless they're part of the original quoted material. This is the style favored by the Oxford Style Manual.

• Example: He said, "The meeting is at 3 p.m". Notice the period is outside the quotation marks.

This distinction might seem minor, but consistent application is crucial for maintaining clarity and professionalism in writing.

Exceptions and Other Punctuation

While the period placement is the most debated aspect, other punctuation marks also require consideration:

• Commas and Semicolons: Similar to periods, these generally follow the same rule as dictated by your chosen style guide (inside in American style, outside in British style).

• Question Marks and Exclamation Points: The placement of question marks and exclamation points depends on whether the quoted material itself is a question or an exclamation.

  • Example (question within a quote): Did he ask, "Where is the library?" (Question mark inside because the quote itself is a question.)

  • Example (exclamation within a quote): She shouted, "Look out!" (Exclamation mark inside because the quote itself is an exclamation.)

  • Example (question about a quote): Was he serious when he said, "I'll be there tomorrow"? (Question mark outside because the main sentence is a question, not the quote.)

Choosing a Style and Maintaining Consistency

The key takeaway is to choose a style guide and stick to it. Inconsistency undermines the credibility of your writing. Whether you adopt the American or British style, consistency is paramount. Ensure your chosen style is appropriate for your target audience and publication. Most word processors offer style checking features that can assist in maintaining consistency.

Remember to always prioritize clear and effective communication. While the rules regarding punctuation placement might seem intricate, adhering to a consistent style contributes significantly to the overall professionalism and readability of your work. By understanding and applying these guidelines, you'll avoid common punctuation errors and enhance the quality of your writing.