[U.S. Government Printing Office Style Manual]
[Chapter 8 - Punctuation]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]
8.1. Punctuation is used to clarify the meaning of written or
printed language. Well-planned word order requires a minimum of
punctuation. The trend toward less punctuation calls for
skillful phrasing to avoid ambiguity and to ensure exact
interpretation. Th e GPO Style Manual can offer only general
rules of text treatment. A rigid design or pattern of
punctuation cannot be laid down, except in broad terms. The
adopted style, however, must be consistent and based on
sentence structure.
8.2. The general principles governing the use of punctuation are: If
it does not clarify the text it should be omitted; and, in the
choice and placing of punctuation marks, the sole aim should be
to bring out more clearly the author�s thought. Punctuation
should aid reading and prevent misreading.
Apostrophes and possessives
8.3. The possessive case of a singular or plural noun not ending in
s is formed by adding an apostrophe and s. The possessive case
of a singular or plural noun ending in s or with an s sound is
formed by adding an apostrophe only. Some irregular plurals
require both an apostrophe and an s. (For possessives of
italicized nouns, see rule 11.6.)
boss', bosses' man's, men's
child's, children's medium's, media's
citizen's, citizens' people's, peoples'
Congress', Congresses' Essex's, Essexes'
criterion's, criteria's Jones', Joneses'
Co.'s, Cos.' Jesus'
erratum's, errata's Mars'
hostess', hostesses' Dumas'
lady's, ladies' Schmitz
'
8.4. In compound nouns, the 's is added to the element nearest the
object possessed.
comptroller general's decision attorney at law's fee
attorneys general's appointments John White, Jr.'s
Mr. Brown of New York's motion (no comma) account
8.5. Joint possession is indicated by placing an apostrophe on the
last element of a series, while individual or alternative
possession requires the use of an apostrophe on each element of
a series.
soldiers and sailors' home editor's or
Brown & Nelson's store proofreader's
men's, women's, opinion
and children's Clinton's or Bush's
clothing administration
St. Michael's Men's Club Mrs. Smith's and Mrs.
Allen's children
the Army's and the
Navy's work
master's and doctor's
degrees
8.6. In the use of an apostrophe in firm names, the names of
organizations and institutions, the titles of books, and
geographic names, the authentic form is to be followed. (Note
use of ``St.'')
Masters, Mates & Pilots' Johns Hopkins
Association University
Dentists' Supply Co. of New York Hinds' Precedents
International Ladies' Garment Harpers Ferry
Workers' Union Hells Canyon
Court of St. James's Reader's Digest
St. Peter's Church Actor's Equity
St. Elizabeths Hospital Association
but Martha's Vineyard
8.7. Generally, the apostrophe should not be used after names of
countries and other organized bodies ending in s, or after
words more descriptive than possessive (not indicating personal
possession), except when plural does not end in s.
United States control teachers college
United Nations meeting merchants exchange
Southern States industries children's hospital
Massachusetts laws Young Men's Christian
Bureau of Ships report Association
House of Representatives
session but
Teamsters Union Veterans'
editors handbook Administration (now
syrup producers manual Department of
technicians guide Veterans Affairs)
Congress' attitude
8.8. Possessive pronouns do not take an apostrophe.
its yours
ours hers
theirs whose
8.9. Possessive indefinite or impersonal pronouns require an
apostrophe.
each other's books anothers idea
some others' plans someone's guesstimate
one's home is his castle
8.10. The singular possessive case is used in such general terms as
the following:
arm's length fuller's earth
attorney's fees miner's inch
author's alterations printer's ink
confectioner's sugar traveler's checks
cow's milk writer's cramp
distiller's grain
8.11. While an apostrophe is used to indicate possession and
contractions, it is not generally necessary to use an
apostrophe simply to show the plural form of most acronyms,
initialisms, or abbreviations, except where clarity and sense
demand such inclusion.
49ers e'er (ever)
TVers class of '08 (2008)
OKs spirit of '76 (1776)
MCing
RIFing not in her '70s (age)
RIFs better: in her
RIFed seventies
YWCAs not during the '90s
ABCs better: during the
1920s 1990s or
IOUs during the twenties
10s (thread) but
4\1/2\s (bonds) he never crosses his
3s (golf) t's
2 by 4s she fails to dot her
IQs i's
don't (do not) a's, &'s, 7's
I've (I have) watch your p's and q's
it's (it is/it has) are they l's or 1's
ne'er (never) the Oakland A's
a number of s's
his resume had too
many I's
When the plural form of an acronym appears in parentheses, a
lower case s is included within the parentheses.
(MPDs) (IPOs)
(MP3s) (SUVs)
(JPEGs)
8.12. The apostrophe is omitted in abbreviations, and also in
shortened forms of certain other words.
Danl., not Dan'l Halloween, not
phone, not'phone Hallowe'en
coon, not'coon copter, not'copter
possum, not'possum but ma'am
8.13. The plural of spelled-out numbers, of words referred to as
words, and of words containing an apostrophe is formed by
adding s or es; but �s is added to indicate the plural of words
used as words if omission of the apostrophe would cause
difficulty in reading.
twos, threes, sevens yeses and noes
ands, ifs, and buts yeas and nays
ins and outs
the haves and have-nots but
ups and downs do's and don'ts
whereases and wherefores which's and that's
pros and cons
8.14. The possessive case is often used in lieu of an objective
phrase even though ownership is not involved.
1 day's labor (labor for 1 day) for charity's sake
12 days' labor for pity's sake
2 hours' traveltime several billion
a stone's throw dollars' worth
2 weeks' pay but $10 billion worth
8.15. The possessive case is not used in such expressions as the
following, in which one noun modifies another.
day labor (labor by the day) State prison
quartermaster stores State rights
8.16. For euphony, nouns ending in s or ce and followed by a word
beginning with s form the possessive by adding an apostrophe
only.
for goodness' sake for acquaintance'
Mr. Hughes' service sake
for old times' sake for conscience' sake
8.17. A possessive noun used in an adjective sense requires the
addition of 's.
He is a friend of John's. Stern's is running a
sale.
8.18. A noun preceding a gerund should be in the possessive case.
in the event of Mary's leaving the ship's hovering
nearby
Brackets
Brackets, in pairs, are used--
8.19. In transcripts, congressional hearings, the Congressional
Record, testimony in courtwork, etc., to enclose interpolations that
are not specifically a part of the original quotation, such as a correction,
explanation, omission, editorial comment, or a caution that an error
is reproduced literally.
We found this to be true at the Government Printing Office
[GPO].
He came on the 3d [2d] of July.
Our conference [lasted] 2 hours.
The general [Washington] ordered him to leave.
The paper was as follows [reads]:
I do not know. [Continues reading:]
[Chorus of ``Mr. Chairman.'']
They fooled only themselves. [Laughter.]
Our party will always serve the people [applause] in spite of
the opposition
[loud applause]. (If more than one bracketed
interpolation, both are included within the sentence.)
The Witness. He did it that way [indicating].
Q. Do you know these men [handing witness a list]?
The bill had not been paid. [Italic added.] or
[Emphasis added.]
The statue [sic] was on the statute books.
The Witness. This matter is classified. [Deleted.]
[Deleted.]
Mr. Jones. Hold up your hands. [Show of hands.]
Answer [after examining list]. Yes; I do.
Q. [Continuing.]
A. [Reads:]
A. [Interrupting.]
[Discussion off the record.]
[Pause.]
The Witness [interrupting]. It is known--
Mr. Jones [continuing]. Now let us take the next item.
Mr. Smith [presiding]. Do you mean that literally?
Mr. Jones [interposing]. Absolutely.
[The matter referred to is as follows:]
The Chairman [to Mr. Smith].
The Chairman [reading]:
Mr. Kelley [to the chairman]. From 15 to 25 percent.
[Objected to.]
[Mr. Smith nods.]
[Mr. Smith aside.]
[Mr. Smith makes further statement off the record.]
Mr. Jones [for Mr. Smith].
A Voice From Audience. Speak up.
Several Voices. Quiet!
8.20. In bills, contracts, laws, etc., to indicate matter that is to
be omitted.
8.21. In mathematics, to denote that enclosed matter is to be treated
as a unit.
8.22. When matter in brackets makes more than one paragraph, start
each paragraph with a bracket and place the closing bracket at
end of last paragraph.
Colon
The colon is used--
8.23. Before a final clause that extends or amplifies preceding
matter.
Give up conveniences; do not demand special privileges;
do not stop work: these are necessary while we are at
war.
Railroading is not a variety of outdoor sport: it is service.
8.24. To introduce formally any matter that forms a complete
sentence, question, or quotation.
The following question came up for discussion: What policy
should be adopted?
She said: ``I believe the time is now or never.'' [When a
direct quotation follows that has more than a few words.]
There are three factors, as follows: First, military
preparation; second, industrial mobilization; and third,
manpower.
8.25. After a salutation.
My Dear Sir:
Ladies and Gentlemen:
To Whom It May Concern:
8.26. In expressing clock time.
2:40 p.m.
8.27. After introductory lines in lists, tables, and leaderwork, if
subentries follow.
Seward Peninsula:
Council district:
Northern Light Mining Co.
Wild Goose Trading Co.
Fairhaven district: Alaska Dredging Association (single
subitem runs in).
Seward Peninsula: Council district (single subitem runs in):
Northern Light Mining Co.
Wild Goose Trading Co.
8.28. In Biblical and other citations.
Luke 4:3.
I Corinthians 13:13.
Journal of Education 3:342-358.
8.29. In bibliographic references, between place of publication and
name of publisher.
Congressional Directory. Washington: U.S. Government Printing
Office.
8.30. To separate book titles and subtitles.
Financial Aid for College Students: Graduate
Germany Revisited: Education in the Federal Republic
8.31. In imprints before the year (en space each side of colon).
U.S. Government Printing Office
Washington : 2008
8.32. In proportions.
Concrete mixed 5:3:1
but 5-2-1 or 5-2-1 (when so in copy)
8.33. In double colon as ratio sign.
1:2::3:6
Comma
The comma is used--
8.34. To separate two words or figures that might otherwise be
misunderstood.
Instead of hundreds, thousands came.
Instead of 20, 50 came.
December 7, 1941.
In 2003, 400 men were dismissed.
To John, Smith was very kind.
What the difficulty is, is not known.
but He suggested that that committee be appointed.
8.35. Before a direct quotation of only a few words following an
introductory phrase.
He said, ``Now or never.
'
8.36. To indicate the omission of a word or words.
Then we had much; now, nothing.
8.37. After each of a series of coordinate qualifying words.
short, swift streams; but short tributary streams
8.38. Between an introductory modifying phrase and the subject
modified.
Beset by the enemy, they retreated.
8.39. Before and aft er Jr., Sr., Esq., Ph.D., F.R.S., Inc., etc.,
within a sentence except where possession is indicated.
Henry Smith, Jr., chairman but
Peter Johns, F.R.S., London John Smith 2d (or II);
Washington, DC, schools Smith, John, II
Motorola, Inc., factory Mr. Smith, Junior,
Brown, A.H., Jr. (not Brown, also spoke (where
Jr., A.H.) only last name is
used)
Alexandria, VA's
waterfront
8.40. To set off parenthetic words, phrases, or clauses.
Mr. Jefferson, who was then Secretary of State, favored the
location of the National Capital at Washington.
It must be remembered, however, that the Government had no
guarantee.
It is obvious, therefore, that this office cannot function.
The atom bomb, which was developed at the Manhattan project,
was first used in World War II.
Their high morale might, he suggested, have caused them to
put success of the team above the reputation of the
college.
The restriction is laid down in title IX, chapter 8, section
15, of the code.
but The man who fell [restrictive clause] broke his back.
The dam that gave way [restrictive clause] was poorly
constructed.
He therefore gave up the search.
8.41. To set off words or phrases in apposition or in contrast.
Mr. Green, the lawyer, spoke for the defense.
Mr. Jones, attorney for the plaintiff, signed the petition.
Mr. Smith, not Mr. Black, was elected.
James Roosevelt, Democrat, of California.
Jean's sister, Joyce, was the eldest. (Jean had one sister.)
but Jonathan's brother Moses Taylor was appointed. (Jonathan had
more than one brother.)
8.42. After each member within a series of three or more words,
phrases, letters, or figures used with and, or, or nor.
red, white, and blue
horses, mules, and cattle; but horses and mules and cattle
by the bolt, by the yard, or in remnants
a, b, and c
neither snow, rain, nor heat
2 days, 3 hours, and 4 minutes (series); but 70 years 11
months 6 days (age)
8.43. Before the conjunction in a compound sentence containing two or
more independent clauses, each of which could have been written
as a simple sentence.
Fish, mollusks, and crustaceans were plentiful in the lakes,
and turtles frequented the shores.
The boy went home alone, and his sister remained with the
crowd.
8.44. After a noun or phrase in direct address.
Senator, will the measure be defeated?
Mr. Chairman, I will reply to the gentleman later.
but Yes, sir; he did see it.
No, ma'am; I do not recall.
8.45. After an interrogative clause, followed by a direct question.
You are sure, are you not? You will go, will you
not?
8.46. Between the title of a person and the name of an organization
in the absence of the words of or of the.
Chief, Division of Finance colonel, 12th Cavalry
chairman, Committee on Regiment
Appropriations president, University
of Virginia
8.47. Inside closing quotation mark.
He said ``four,'' not ``five.''
``Freedom is an inherent right,'' he insisted.
Items marked ``A,'' ``B,'' and ``C,'' inclusive, were listed.
8.48. To separate thousands and millions in numerical figures.
4,230 but 1,000,000,000 is more
50,491 clearly illustrated
1,250,000 as 1 billion
8.49. After the year in complete dates (month, day, year) within a
sentence.
The dates of September 11, 1993, to June 12, 1994, were
erroneous.
This was reflected in the June 13, 2007, report.
but Production for June 2008 was normal.
The 10 February 2008 deadline passed.
The comma is omitted--
8.50. Between superior figures or letters in footnote references.
Numerous instances may be cited.\1\ \2\
Data are based on October production.\a\ \b\
8.51. Before ZIP (Zone Improvement Plan) Code postal-delivery number.
Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20401-0003
East Rochester, OH 44625-9701
8.52. Between month, holiday, or season and year in dates.
June 2008 150 B.C.
22d of May 2008 Labor Day 2006
February and March 2008 Easter Sunday 2006
January, February, and 5 January 2006
March 2008 (military usage)
January 24 A.D. 2008; 15th spring 2007
of June A.D. 2008 autumn 2007
8.53. Between the name and number of an organization.
Columbia Typographical Union No. 101-12
American Legion Post No. 33
8.54. In fractions, in decimals, and in serial numbers, except patent
numbers.
1/2500
1.0947
page 2632
202-275-2303 (telephone number)
1721-1727 St. Clair Avenue
Executive Order 11242
motor No. 189463
1450 kilocycles; 1100 meters
8.55. Between two nouns one of which identifies the other.
The Children's Bureau's booklet ``Infant Care'' continues to
be a bestseller.
8.56. Before an ampersand (&).
Brown, Wilson & Co.
Mine, Mill & Smelter Workers
8.57. Before abbreviations of compass directions.
6430 Princeton Dr. SW.
8.58. In bibliographies, between name of the publication and volume
or similar number.
American Library Association Bulletin 34:238, April 1940.
8.59. Wherever possible without danger of ambiguity.
$2 gold
Executive Order No. 21
General Order No. 12; but General Orders, No. 12
Public Law 85-1
He graduates in the year 2010 (not the year 2,010)
My age is 30 years 6 months 12 days.
John Lewis 2d (or II)
Murphy of Illinois; Murphy of New York (where only last name
is used)
Carroll of Carrollton; Henry of Navarre (person closely
identified with place);
but Clyde Leo Downs, of Maryland; President Levin, of Yale
University
James Bros. et al.; but James Bros., Nelson Co., et al. (last
element of series)
Dash
A 1-em dash is used--
8.60. To mark a sudden break or abrupt change in thought.
He said--and no one contradicted him--``The battle is lost.''
If the bill should pass--which God forbid!--the service will
be wrecked.
The auditor--shall we call him a knave or a fool?--approved
an inaccurate
statement.
8.61. To indicate an interruption or an unfinished word or sentence.
A 2-em dash is used when the interruption is by a person other
than the speaker, and a 1-em dash will show self-interruption.
Note that extracts must begin with a true paragraph. Following
extracts, colloquy must start as a paragraph.
``Such an idea can scarcely be--''
``The word `donation'--''
``The word `dona'--''
He said: ``Give me lib--''
The bill reads ``repeal,'' not ``am--''
Q. Did you see--
A. No, sir.
Mr. Brown [reading]: ``The report goes on to say that--''
Observe this closely--``during the fiscal year * * *.''
8.62. Instead of commas or parentheses if the meaning may thus be
clarified.
These are shore deposits--gravel, sand, and clay--but marine
sediments underlie them.
8.63. Before a final clause that summarizes a series of ideas.
Freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom from want,
freedom from fear--these are the fundamentals of moral
world order.
8.64. After an introductory phrase reading into the following lines
and indicating repetition of such phrase.
I recommend--
That we submit them for review and corrections;
That we then accept them as corrected; and
That we also publish them.
8.65. With a preceding question mark, in lieu of a colon.
How can you explain this?--``Fee paid, $5.''
8.66. To precede a credit line or a run-in credit or signature.
Lay the proud usurpers low!
Tyrants fall in every foe!
Liberty's in every blow!
Let us do or die!
--Robert Burns.
Every man's work shall be made manifest.--I Corinthians 3:13.
This statement is open to question.--Gerald H. Forsythe.
8.67. After a run-in sidehead.
8.68. To separate run-in questions and answers in testimony.
Q. Did he go?--A. No.
A 1-em dash is not used--
8.69. At the beginning of any line of type, except as shown in rule 8.66.
8.70. Immediately after a comma, colon, or semicolon.
A 3-em dash is used--
8.71. In bibliographies to indicate repetition.
Powell, James W., Jr., Hunting in Virginia's lowlands. 1972.
200 pp.
---- Fishing off Delmarva. 1972. 28 pp.
An en dash is used--
8.72. In a combination of (1) figures, (2) capital letters, or (3)
figures and capital letters. An en dash, not a hyphen, is used,
even when such terms are adjectival modifiers.
figures:
5-20 (bonds)
85-1-85-20 (Public laws. Note em dash between two elements
with en dashes)
1-703-765-6593 (telephone number)
230-20-8030 (Social Security number)
$15-$25 (range)
capital letters:
WTOP-AM-FM-TV (radio and television stations)
CBS-TV
AFL-CIO (union merger)
C-SPAN (satellite television)
figures and capitals:
6-A (exhibit identification)
DC-14 (airplane)
I-95 (interstate roadway)
4-H (Club)
LK-66-A(2)-74 (serial number)
but Rule 13e-4
section 12(a)-(b) (en dash used for the word ``to'')
ACF-Brill Motors Co. (hyphen with capital letters and a
word)
loran-C (hyphen with lowercase word and capital letter)
MiG-25 (hyphen with mixed letters with figure)
ALL-AMERICAN ESSAY CONTEST (hyphen in capitalized heading)
Four Corners Monument, AZ-NM-UT-CO (hyphen with two-letter
state abbreviations)
8.73. In the absence of the word to when denoting a span of time.
2005-2008 January-June Monday-Friday
An en dash is not used--
8.74. For to when the word from precedes the first of two related
figures or expressions.
From June 1 to July 30, 2005; not from June 1-July 30, 2005
8.75. For and when the word between precedes the first of two related
figures or expressions.
Between 2000 and 2008; not between 2000-08
Ellipses
8.76. Three asterisks (preferred form) or three periods, separated by
en spaces, are used to denote an ellipsis within a sentence, at
the beginning or end of a sentence, or in two or more
consecutive sentences. To achieve faithful reproduction of
excerpt material, editors using period ellipses should indicate
placement of the terminal period in relation to an ellipsis at
the end of a sentence. Note, in the following examples, the
additional spacing necessary to clearly defi ne commas and the
terminal period when period ellipses are employed.
The Senate having tried Andrew Johnson, President of the
United States, upon articles of impeachment exhibited
against him by the House of Representatives, and two-thirds
of the Senators present not having found him guilty of the
charges contained in the second, third, and eleventh
articles of impeachment, it is therefore
Ordered and adjudged. That the said Andrew Johnson, President
of the United States be, and he is, acquitted of the
charges in said articles made and set forth.
The Senate having tried Andrew Johnson * * * upon articles of
impeachment * * * and two-thirds of the Senators present
not having found him guilty of the charges * * *, it is
therefore
Ordered and adjudged. That the said Andrew Johnson, President
of the United States be * * * acquitted of the charges
* * *.
The Senate having tried Andrew Johnson. . . upon articles of
impeachment. . . and two-thirds of the Senators present not
having found him guilty of the charges. . . , it is
therefore
Ordered and adjudged. That the said Andrew Johnson, President
of the United States be. . . acquitted of the charges. . . .
8.77. Ellipses are not overrun alone at the end of a paragraph.
8.78. When periods are not specifically requested for ellipses in
copy that has both periods and asterisks, asterisks will be
used.
8.79. A line of asterisks indicates an omission of one or more entire
paragraphs. In 26\1/2\-pica or wider measure, a line of
``stars'' means seven asterisks indented 2 ems at each end of
the line, with the remaining space divided evenly between the
asterisks. In measures less than 26\1/2\ picas, five asterisks
are used. Quotation marks are not used on a line of asterisks
in quoted matter. Where an ellipsis line ends a complete
quotation, no closing quote is used.
* * * * * * *
8.80. Indented matter in 26\1/2\-pica or wider measure also requires a
seven-asterisk line to indicate the omission of one or more
entire paragraphs.
8.81. If an omission occurs in the last part of a paragraph
immediately before a line of asterisks, three asterisks are
used, in addition to the line of asterisks, to indicate such an
omission.
8.82. Equalize spacing above and below an ellipsis line.
Exclamation point
8.83. The exclamation point is used to mark surprise, incredulity,
admiration, appeal, or other strong emotion which may be
expressed even in a declarative or interrogative sentence.
Who shouted, ``All aboard!'' [Note omission of question
mark.]
``Great!'' he shouted. [Note omission of comma.]
He acknowledged the fatal error!
How breathtakingly beautiful!
Timber!
Mayday! Mayday!
8.84. In direct address, either to a person or a personified object,
O is used without an exclamation point, or other punctuation;
but if strong feeling is expressed, an exclamation point is
placed at the end of the statement.
O my friend, let us consider this subject impartially.
O Lord, save Th y people!
8.85. In exclamations without direct address or appeal, oh is used
instead of O, and the exclamation point is omitted.
Oh, but the gentleman is mistaken.
Oh dear; the time is so short.
Hyphen
The hyphen (a punctuation mark, not an element in the spelling of
words) is used--
8.86. To connect the elements of certain compound words. (See Chapter
6 ``Compounding Rules.'')
8.87. To indicate continuation of a word divided at the end of a
line. (See Word Division, supplement to the Style Manual.)
8.88. Between the letters of a spelled word.
The Style Board changed New Jerseyite to New J-e-r-s-e-y-a-n.
A native of Halifax is a H-a-l-i-g-o-n-i-a-n.
The Chinese repressive action took place in T-i-a-n-a-n-m-e-n
Square.
8.89. To separate elements of chemical formulas.
The hyphen, as an element, may be used--
8.90. To represent letters deleted or illegible words in copy.
Oakland's - - bonic plague Richard Emory H - - -
Parentheses
Parentheses are used--
8.91. To set off important matter not intended to be part of the main
statement that is not a grammatical element of the sentence. In
colloquy, brackets must be substituted.
This case (124 U.S. 329) is not relevant.
The result (see fig. 2) is most surprising.
The United States is the principal purchaser (by value) of
these exports (23 per-
cent in 1995 and 19 percent in 1996).
8.92. To enclose a parenthetic clause where the interruption is too
great to be indicated by commas.
You can find it neither in French dictionaries (at any rate,
not in Littr�) nor in English dictionaries.
8.93. To enclose an explanatory word not part of a written or printed
statement.
the Winchester (VA) Star; but the Star of Winchester, VA
Portland (OR) Chamber of Commerce; but Athens, GA, schools
8.94. To enclose letters or numbers designating items in a series,
either at the beginning of paragraphs or within a paragraph.
The order of delivery will be: (a) Food, (b) clothing, and
(c) tents and other housing equipment.
You will observe that the sword is (1) old fashioned, (2)
still sharp, and (3) unusually light for its size.
Paragraph 7(B)(1)(a) will be found on page 6. (Note
parentheses closed up.)
8.95. To enclose a figure inserted to confirm a written or printed
statement given in words if double form is specifi cally
requested.
This contract shall be completed in sixty (60) days.
8.96. A reference in parentheses at the end of a sentence is placed
before the period, unless it is a complete sentence in itself.
The specimen exhibits both phases (pl. 14, A, B).
The individual cavities show great variation. (See pl. 4.)
8.97. If a sentence contains more than one parenthetic reference, the
one at the end is placed before the period.
This sandstone (see pl. 6) is in every county of the State
(see pl. 1).
8.98. When a figure is followed by a letter in parentheses, no space
is used between the figure and the opening parenthesis; but, if
the letter is not in parentheses and the figure is repeated
with each letter, the letter is closed up with the figure.
15(a). Classes, grades, and sizes.
15a. Classes, grades, and sizes.
8.99. If both a figure and a letter in parentheses are used before
each paragraph, a period and an en space are used after the
closing parenthesis. If the figure is not repeated before each
letter in parentheses but is used only before the first letter,
the period is placed aft er the figure. However, if the figure
is not repeated before each letter in parentheses and no period
is used, space is inserted aft er the number if at least one
other lettered subsection appears.
15(a). When the figure is used before the letter in each
paragraph--
15(b). The period is placed after the closing parenthesis.
15. (a) When the figure is used before the letter in the
first paragraph but not repeated with subsequent letters--
(b) The period is used after the figure only.
Sec. 12 (a) When no period is used and a letter in
parentheses appears after a numbered item--
(b) Space must be used after the number if at least one other
lettered subsection is shown.
8.100. Note position of the period relative to closing parenthesis:
The vending stand sells a variety of items (sandwiches,
beverages, cakes, etc.).
The vending stand sells a variety of items (sandwiches,
beverages, cakes, etc. (sometimes ice cream)).
The vending stand sells a variety of items. (These include
sandwiches, beverages, cakes, etc. (6).)
8.101. To enclose bylines in congressional work.
(By Harvey Hagman, archeological correspondent)
8.102. When matter in parentheses makes more than one paragraph, start
each paragraph with a parenthesis and place the closing
parenthesis at the end of the last paragraph.
Period
The period is used--
8.103. After a declarative sentence that is not exclamatory or after
an imperative sentence.
Stars are suns.
He was employed by Sampson & Co.
Do not be late.
On with the dance.
8.104. After an indirect question or after a question intended as a
suggestion and not requiring an answer.
Tell me how he did it.
May we hear from you.
May we ask prompt payment.
8.105. In place of a closing parenthesis after a letter or number
denoting a series.
a. Bread well baked 1. Punctuate freely
b. Meat cooked rare 2. Compound sparingly
c. Cubed apples stewed 3. Index thoroughly
8.106. Sometimes to indicate ellipsis.
8.107. After a run-in sidehead.
Conditional subjunctive.--The conditional subjunctive is
required for all unreal and doubtful conditions.
2. Peacetime preparation.--a. The Chairman of the National
Security Resources Board, etc.
2. Peacetime preparation--Industrial mobilization plans.--The
Chairman of the National Security Resources Board, etc.
2. Peacetime preparation.--Industrial mobilization.--The
Chairman of the National Security Resources Board, etc.
62. Determination of types.--a. Statement of characteristics.--
Before types of equipment, etc.
Steps in planning for procurement.--(1) Determination of
needs.--To plan for the procurement of such arms, etc.
62. Determination of types.--(a) Statement of
characteristics.--Before, etc.
DETERMINATION OF TYPES.--Statement of characteristics.--
Before types of, etc.
Note.--The source material was furnished. but Source: U.S.
Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census.
8.108. Paragraphs and subparagraphs may be arranged according to the
following scheme. The sequence is not fixed, and variations, in
addition to the use of center and side heads or indented
paragraphs, may be adopted, depending on the number of parts.
I. Outlines can begin with a capital Roman numeral.
A. The number of levels and the width of the column
determine alignment and indention.
1. A set space (en space) following the identifier
aids alignment.
a. Usually, typefaces and sizes are chosen to agree
with the hierarchy of the head breakdowns.
(1) Aligning runover lines with the first word
which follows the number or letter aids
readability.
(a) It is important to vary (alternate) the
use of letters and numbers in any
outline.
(i) The lowercase Roman numerals (i),
(ii), etc. may be used as parts of
the outline or to identify subparts
of any previous parts. (aa) When
absolutely necessary, double (or
triple) lowercase letters may be
used.
II. Where not needed, the capital Roman numerals may be
discarded and the outline can begin with the letter A. As
in any composition, consistency in indentions and order is
essential.
8.109. To separate integers from decimals in a single expression.
13.75 percent 1.25 meters
$3.50 0.08 mile
8.110. In continental European languages, to indicate thousands.
1.317 72.190.175
8.111. After abbreviations, unless otherwise specified. (See Chapter
9, ``Abbreviations and Letter Symbols.'')
Apr. RR.
fig. but
Ph.D. m (meter)
NE. (Northeast) kc (kilocycle)
SSE. (South-Southeast) NY (New York)
8.112. After legends and explanatory matter beneath illustrations.
Legends without descriptive language do not receive periods.
Figure 1.--Schematic drawing.
Figure 1.--Continued.
but Figure 1 (without legend, no period)
8.113. After Article 1, Section 1, etc., at the beginning of
paragraphs.
A center period is sometimes used--
8.114. To indicate multiplication. (Use of a multiplication sign is
preferable.)
ab axb
The period is omitted--
8.115. After--
Lines in title pages
Center, side, and running heads; but is not omitted after
run-in sideheads
Continued lines
Boxheads of tables
Scientific, chemical, or other symbols
This rule does not apply to abbreviation periods.
8.116. After a quotation mark that is preceded by a period.
She said: ``I believe the time is now or never.''
8.117. After letters used as names without specific designation.
Officer B, Subject A, Brand X, etc.
A said to B that all is well.
Mr. A told Mr. B that the case was closed.
Mr. X (for unknown or censored name).
but Mr. A. [for Mr. Andrews]. I do not want to go.
Mr. K. [for Mr. King]. The meeting is adjourned.
8.118. After a middle initial which is merely a letter and not an
abbreviation of a name.
Daniel D Tompkins
Ross T McIntire
but Harry S. Truman (President Truman's preference)
8.119. After a short name which is not an abbreviation of the longer
form.
Alex Mac
Ed Sam
8.120. After Roman numerals used as ordinals.
King George V Super Bowl XLII
Apollo XII insigne
8.121. After words and incomplete statements listed in columns. Full-
measure matter is not to be regarded as a column.
8.122. Explanatory matter should be set in 6 point type under leaders
or rules.
............... .................. ...............
(Name) (Address) (Position)
8.123. Immediately before leaders, even if an abbreviation precedes
the leaders.
Question mark
The question mark is used--
8.124. To indicate a direct query, even if not in the form of a
question.
Did he do it?
He did what?
Can the money be raised? is the question.
Who asked, ``Why?'' [Note single question mark.]
``Did you hurt yourself, my son?'' she asked.
8.125. To express more than one query in the same sentence.
Can he do it? or you? or anyone?
8.126. To express doubt.
He said the boy was 8(?) feet tall. (No space before question
mark.)
The statue(?) was on the statute books.
The scientific identification Dorothia? was noted.
(Roman ``?''.)
Quotation marks
Quotation marks are used--
8.127. To enclose direct quotations. (Each part of an interrupted
quotation begins and ends with quotation marks.)
The answer is ``No.'' He said, ``John said, `No.' '' (Note
thin space between single and double closing quotes.)
``John,'' asked Henry, ``why do you go?''
8.128. To enclose any matter following such terms as entitled, the
word, the term, marked, designated, classified, named,
endorsed, cited as, referred to as, or signed; however, quotation
marks are not used to enclose expressions following the terms
known as, called, so-called, etc., unless such expressions are
misnomers or slang.
Congress passed the act entitled ``An act * * *.
''
After the word ``treaty,'' insert a comma.
Of what does the item ``Miscellaneous debts'' consist?
The column ``Imports from foreign countries'' was not * * *.
The document will be marked ``Exhibit No. 21;'' but The
document may be
made exhibit No. 21.
The check was endorsed ``John Adamson.''
It was signed ``John.''
but Beryllium is known as glucinium in some European countries.
It was called profit and loss.
The so-called investigating body.
8.129. To enclose titles of addresses, articles, awards, books,
captions, editorials, essays, headings, subheadings, headlines,
hearings, motion pictures and plays (including television and
radio programs), operas, papers, short poems, reports, songs,
studies, subjects, and themes. All principal words are to be
capitalized.
An address on ``Uranium-235 in the Atomic Age
''
The article ``Germany Revisited'' appeared in the last issue.
He received the ``Man of the Year'' award.
``The Conquest of Mexico,'' a published work (book)
Under the caption ``Long-Term Treasurys Rise
''
The subject was discussed in ``Punctuation.'' (chapter
heading)
It will be found in ``Part XI: Early Thought.''
The editorial ``Haphazard Budgeting''
``Compensation,'' by Emerson (essay)
``United States To Appoint Representative to U.N.'' (heading
for headline)
In ``Search for Paradise'' (motion picture); ``South
Pacific'' (play)
A paper on ``Constant-Pressure Combustion'' was read.
``O Captain! My Captain!'' (short poem)
The report ``Atomic Energy: What It Means to the Nation'';
but annual report of the Public Printer
This was followed by the singing of ``The Star-Spangled
Banner.''
Under the subhead ``Sixty Days of Turmoil'' will be found
* * *.
The subject (or theme) of the conference is ``Peaceful Uses
of Atomic Energy.''
also Account 5, ``Management fees.''
Under the heading ``Management and Operation.''
Under the appropriation ``Building of ships, Navy.''
8.130. At the beginning of each paragraph of a quotation, but at the
end of the last paragraph only.
8.131. To enclose a letter or communication that bears both date and
signature.
8.132. To enclose misnomers, slang expressions, sobriquets, coined
words, or ordinary words used in an arbitrary way.
His report was ``bunk.''
It was a ``gentlemen's agreement.''
The ``invisible government'' is responsible.
George Herman ``Babe'' Ruth.
but He voted for the lameduck amendment.
8.133. To close up characters except when they precede a fraction
or an apostrophe or precede or follow a superior figure or
letter, in which case a thin space is used. A thin space
is used to separate double and single quotation marks.
Quotation marks are not used--
8.134. In poetry. The lines of a poem should align on the left, those
that rhyme taking the same indention.
Why seek to scale Mount Everest,
Queen of the air?
Why strive to crown that cruel crest
And deathward dare?
Said Mallory of dauntless quest:
``Because it's there.''
8.135. To enclose titles of works of art: paintings, statuary, etc.
8.136. To enclose names of newspapers or magazines.
8.137. To enclose complete letters having date and signature.
8.138. To enclose extracts that are indented or set in smaller type,
or solid extracts in leaded matter; but indented matter in text
that is already quoted carries quotation marks.
8.139. In indirect quotations. Tell her yes. He could not say no.
8.140. Before a display initial which begins a quoted paragraph.
8.141. The comma and the final period will be placed inside the
quotation marks. Other punctuation marks should be placed
inside the quotation marks only if they are a part of the
matter quoted.
Ruth said, ``I think so.''
``The President,'' he said, ``will veto the bill.''
The trainman shouted, ``All aboard!''
Who asked, ``Why?''
The President suggests that ``an early occasion be sought
* * *.''
Why call it a ``gentlemen's agreement''?
8.142. In congressional and certain other classes of work showing
amendments, and in courtwork with quoted language, punctuation
marks are printed after the quotation marks when not a part of
the quoted matter.
Insert the words ``growth'', ``production'', and
``manufacture''.
To be inserted after the words ``cadets, U.S. Coast Guard;''.
Change ``February 1, 1983'', to ``June 30, 2008''.
``Insert in lieu thereof `July 1, 1983,'.''
8.143. When occurring together, quotation marks should precede
footnote reference numbers.
The commissioner claimed that the award was
``unjustified.''\1\
Kelly's exact words were: ``The facts in the case prove
otherwise.''\2\
8.144. Quotation marks should be limited, if possible, to three sets
(double, single, double).
``The question in the report is, `Can a person who obtains
his certificate of naturalization by fraud be considered a
``bona fide'' citizen of the United States?' ''
Semicolon
The semicolon is used--
8.145. To separate clauses containing commas.
Donald A. Peters, Jr., president of the First National Bank,
was also a director of New York Central; Harvey D. Jones
was a director of Oregon Steel Co. and New York Central;
Thomas W. Harrison, chairman of the board of McBride & Co.,
was also on the board of Oregon Steel Co.
Reptiles, amphibians, and predatory mammals swallow their
prey whole or in large pieces, bones included; waterfowl
habitually take shellfish entire; and gallinaceous birds
are provided with gizzards that grind up the hardest seeds.
Yes, sir; he did see it.
No, sir; I do not recall.
8.146. To separate statements that are too closely related in meaning
to be written as separate sentences, and also statements of
contrast.
Yes; that is right.
No; we received one-third.
It is true in peace; it is true in war.
War is destructive; peace, constructive.
8.147. To set off explanatory abbreviations or words that summarize
or explain preceding matter.
The industry is related to groups that produce finished
goods; i.e., electrical machinery and transportation
equipment.
There were three metal producers involved; namely, Jones &
Laughlin, Armco, and Kennecott.
The semicolon is not used--
8.148. Where a comma will suffice.
Offices are located in New York, NY, Chicago, IL, and Dallas,
TX.
Single punctuation
8.149. Single punctuation should be used wherever possible without
ambiguity.
124 U.S. 321 (no comma)
Sir: (no dash)
Joseph replied, ``It is a worthwhile effort.'' (no outside
period)
Type
8.150. All punctuation marks, including parentheses, brackets, and
superior reference figures, are set to match the type of the
words which they adjoin. A lightface dash is used after a run-
in boldface side-head followed by lightface matter. Lightface
brackets, parentheses, or quotation marks shall be used when
both boldface and lightface matter are enclosed.
Charts: C&GS 5101 (N.O. 18320), page 282 (see above); N.O.
93491 (Plan); page 271.