Quotation marks are used to enclose direct quotes. Most punctuation like periods, commas, question marks, and exclamation points go inside the closing quotation mark. However, colons and semi-colons are placed outside closing quotation marks. For example, a colon goes outside to separate the introduction from the quoted material, and a semi-colon is used to connect two independent clauses outside the quotation.

1. PUNCTUATION Quotation Marks

2. “Quotation Marks”Bookends for quotationsRule 1Most punctuation marks go inside the quotation marks. Periods, Commas, Question Mark, Exclamation Point

3. “Quotation Marks”“I think I am going to be sick.”Period is inside the quotation mark“I shouldn’t have eaten those strawberries,” thought Jonathan. Comma is inside the quotation mark“Who goes there?” said the sentry.Question mark is inside the quotation mark“We’re losing speed!” screamed the captain.Exclamation Point is inside the quotation mark

4. “Quotation Marks”Rule 2Some punctuation marks go on the outside of the quotation marks: Colon, Semi-ColonThere are two reasons why he loves the book, “Animal Farm”: It has great battle scenes and cool protagonists. Colon goes outside the quotation mark

5. “Quotation Marks”My favorite movie is “Saving Private Ryan”; he watched it twice a week. Semi-Colon goes outside the quotation mark