Do quotations go after or before a period? This is a common question that often confuses many writers and students. The correct placement of quotations in relation to periods is essential for maintaining proper grammar and readability in written work. Understanding this rule can greatly enhance the clarity and professionalism of your writing.
Quotations play a crucial role in academic and formal writing, as they help to support arguments and provide evidence. When it comes to the placement of periods, there are two main scenarios to consider. The first scenario involves quotations that are integrated into the main text, while the second scenario pertains to quotations that are presented as separate sentences.
In the case of integrated quotations, the period should come after the closing quotation mark. This is because the quotation is part of the main sentence and the period indicates the end of that sentence. For example:
“The sky was a brilliant shade of blue,” she exclaimed.
In this example, the quotation is part of the main sentence, and the period follows the closing quotation mark.
On the other hand, when a quotation is presented as a separate sentence, the period should come before the opening quotation mark. This is because the quotation is a standalone sentence, and the period indicates the end of that sentence. For example:
“What a beautiful day!” she said.
In this example, the quotation is a separate sentence, and the period precedes the opening quotation mark.
It is important to note that when a quotation is part of a longer sentence, the period should still be placed after the closing quotation mark, even if it appears to be before the quotation. This is because the period is part of the main sentence and not the quotation itself. For example:
“She mentioned that the weather was going to be sunny, but I didn’t believe her.”
In this example, the period comes after the closing quotation mark, indicating the end of the main sentence.
In conclusion, the placement of periods in relation to quotations depends on the context in which they are used. When quotations are integrated into the main text, the period should come after the closing quotation mark. When quotations are presented as separate sentences, the period should come before the opening quotation mark. Understanding these rules can help you maintain proper grammar and readability in your writing.
