Question

detail note on manuscript mechanism and punctuation​

Answer 1

Answer:

Basic Punctuation

Introduction

Mechanics are the small parts of your writing that stick everything together to ensure that everything makes sense and that emphasis is placed where you want it to be. Basic punctuation mechanics include commas (,), colons (:) and semicolons (;), apostrophes (‘) and hyphens (-).

When used properly, these mechanics give your sentences the meaning they should have. However, when used incorrectly, they can transform the meaning of the most basic sentence and leave your readers completely baffled as to what you are trying to tell them.

Table 1 contains some basic punctuation mechanics rules that you should apply when writing. This table is not extensive, but provides the most important ‘do’s and don’ts’.

Table 1: Basic punctuation mechanics rules

Punctuation Component Do Do Not

Comma (,)

Use to split up sentences

Use where there is a pause

Overuse (can make your writing more confusing)

Colon (:)

Use before listing items

Confuse colons and semicolons

Semicolon (;)

Use to join sentences with directly related information

Apostrophe (‘)

Use when something belongs (Mike’s test tube)

Use when contracting (we’ve, she’d, I’m)

Confuse with plurals (test tubes, not test tube’s)

Hyphen (-)

Use to link compound words (25-mile race)

Use after words ending in y

Use if the same meaning is achieved without one

Commas

You probably already use commas very frequently, but it can still be hard to always use them appropriately. If you fail to use a comma when there should be a natural pause in a sentence, like here, your readers will be confused. However, if you overuse commas, your readers will be equally baffled as to what you are trying to tell them.

Consider the two versions of a short sentence, below, that is interpreted completely differently due to the presence of a single (necessary) comma:

1: I am very hungry so we should cook Mom.

2: I am very hungry so we should cook, Mom.

And now consider the two versions of a short sentence, below, that is made more confusing by the overuse of commas:

1: Thankfully, we, the people of Scarborough, a little seaside town, are deeply, and passionately involved, in nature conservation.

2: Thankfully we, the people of Scarborough, a little seaside town, are deeply and passionately involved in nature conservation.