Writers Resource Group, Inc.
Delivering intelligence: On point. On deadline. On budget.
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"A simple grammar mistake
Is a BRIGHT RED FLAG
That can ruin an otherwise good first impression."
--Sister Mary Patrick | |
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In business today, clarity is the key to credibility
Mary Pat here. Every few weeks or so, I take time out from my duties to share my English grammar notes with WRG's clients, colleagues and friends. After 35 years at St. Dom's Academy, I've earned my English grammar chops, believe me. Chances are, you already know these rules. But when we get busy or in a hurry, we all tend to forget them. That's how errors creep into our writing. Worse yet, a simple grammar mistake can ruin that good first impression and taint your reputation for accuracy and excellence. Now, read on, pay attention and sit up straight in your chair.
All the best wishes,
Sister Mary Pat, Our Lady of Perpetual Correctness
Chief Grammarian, Writers Resource Group, Inc.
Sister Mary Pat (left)
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Proper positioning of quotation marks within a sentence
So, where should quotation marks appear in a sentence relative to their punctuation? Short answer: Always put periods and commas inside the quotation mark when ending a sentence. Here are two examples:
"I'll need another look at my soliloquy," the monsignor demanded.
I shot back, "Let's both pray you can still read it after leaving your spectacles at Vespers."
Then there are the question marks. They're tricky little devils. The sentence's logic dictates whether they are placed inside or outside the quotation marks. For example:
The monsignor turned petulant, "Well then, may I please see the soliloquy you so kindly wrote for me?"
Summoning all the grace at my disposal, I politely inquired, "What might you be wanting to call it, "Faith: An Acquired Skill if You're Notre Dame with a Home Record of 11 and 10"?
See the subtle difference? One version has the question as part of a larger sentence. The other, has the entire sentence as the question. Until next time, I'm Sister Mary Pat for Writers Resource Group.
Sources: The Blue Book of Grammar and Punctuation by Jane Straus and professor Lawrence Raab, Department of English, Williams College.
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| About Writers Resource Group, Inc.
Writers Resource Group provides professional literary services to all types and sizes of companies. Industry specialties include financial services, manufacturing, industrial, health care and professional services.
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