Punctuation Guide
Punctuation gives structure to your writing. Learn the rules, avoid common mistakes, and use RewriteMate to catch punctuation errors in any app.
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Period (.)
Use a period to end a declarative sentence. It is the most common punctuation mark and the safest way to end most sentences.
Comma (,)
The comma is the most versatile — and most misused — punctuation mark. Use it to separate ideas, list items, and clarify meaning.
Lists
We need design, development, and marketing approval.
After introductory phrases
After the meeting, we reviewed the next steps.
Before conjunctions
She wrote the draft, and he edited it.
With non-essential clauses
Our CEO, who founded the company in 2020, announced the news.
Semicolon (;)
Use a semicolon to connect two complete sentences that are closely related. It is stronger than a comma but softer than a period.
The project is on schedule; we expect to launch next week.
Also use semicolons to separate list items that contain commas: We visited Paris, France; Rome, Italy; and Berlin, Germany.
Colon (:)
Use a colon to introduce a list, a quote, an explanation, or an example. What comes before the colon must be a complete sentence.
Apostrophe (')
Possession
The team's performance exceeded expectations.
Contractions
It's (it is) important to check its (possessive) settings.
Plural possession
The managers' meeting was rescheduled.
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Download RewriteMate FreeFrequently Asked Questions
What is the most commonly misused punctuation mark?▾
The comma. Common mistakes include comma splices (joining two sentences with only a comma), missing commas in lists, and unnecessary commas that break the flow of a sentence.
When should I use a semicolon vs. a colon?▾
Use a semicolon to connect two related complete sentences. Use a colon to introduce a list, explanation, or quote.
Does RewriteMate fix punctuation?▾
Yes. RewriteMate proofreads your text and corrects punctuation, grammar, and spelling — directly inside any app on iOS and macOS.
Is the punctuation checker free?▾
Yes. RewriteMate's free tier includes proofreading and grammar checking. You can also use our free online grammar checker at any time.
