English punctuation may look small, but it makes a big difference in meaning, clarity, and professionalism. Many English learners know the grammar and vocabulary but still lose marks in tests or sound unnatural in writing because of punctuation mistakes.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to use the most important English punctuation marks, common mistakes learners make, and how to fix them.
1. The Period (.)
The period is used to end a complete sentence.
Example:
I live in Tokyo.
I teach English online.
Common ESL mistake:
- Writing very long sentences without stopping.
Tip:
If a sentence feels long when you read it out loud, it probably needs a period.
2. The Comma (,)
Commas help organize information and make sentences easier to read.
Use commas:
- In lists
I like coffee, tea, and water. - After introductory words
After work, I usually study English. - Before conjunctions (and, but, so) joining two full sentences
I wanted to rest, but I had a lesson.
Common ESL mistake:
- Using commas instead of periods.
Incorrect:
I was tired, I went to bed early.
Correct:
I was tired. I went to bed early.
3. The Question Mark (?)
Use a question mark at the end of direct questions.
Example:
What time does the lesson start?
Have you studied punctuation before?
Common ESL mistake:
- Using a question mark in indirect questions.
Incorrect:
I don’t know where he is?
Correct:
I don’t know where he is.
4. The Exclamation Mark (!)
Exclamation marks show strong emotion or emphasis.
Example:
That’s great news!
Be careful!
Tip for learners:
In professional or academic writing, use exclamation marks very sparingly. One is usually enough.
5. The Apostrophe (’)
Apostrophes are used for contractions and possession.
Contractions:
- I’m (I am)
- don’t (do not)
- it’s (it is)
Possession:
- the teacher’s book (one teacher)
- the teachers’ room (more than one teacher)
Very common mistake:
Confusing its and it’s
- it’s = it is
- its = possessive
6. Quotation Marks (“ ”)
Quotation marks show exact words someone said or wrote.
Example:
She said, “I will join the lesson later.”
Tip:
In American English, punctuation usually goes inside quotation marks.
7. Capital Letters
Capital letters are not punctuation, but they are closely connected.
Use capitals:
- At the start of a sentence
- For names, places, and countries
- For days and months
Incorrect:
i live in japan.
Correct:
I live in Japan.
Why Punctuation Matters
Good punctuation:
- Makes your writing easier to read
- Helps avoid misunderstandings
- Improves test scores (EIKEN, TOEIC, IELTS)
- Makes emails and business writing more professional
Many advanced learners lose points not because of grammar, but because of punctuation errors.
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