Remember the old saying that when you take a breath you should add a comma.
Not true!! There really are rules and none of them have to do with breathing.
Use a comma to
Writing well is a lot more than just correct grammar, but it is an important element.
Do you know the difference between colons ( : ) and semi-colons ( ; )? Here are the rules.
Use colons:
Use semi-colons:
Don't rely on the grammar checker on your computer. It often does not catch these. These are but a few of the rules for colons and semicolons. Check a grammar handbook for more details.
Remember that academic writing is extremely formal. This advice may not be true for other types of writing.
Parentheses
"Since I am from Florida, I bought a winter coat before coming to Louisville (someone told me that they often have snow).
Dashes
"Learning Greek in J-term-who wouldn't remember that experience-was a challenge."
"Mother's suggestions were unsolicited-although helpful."
Slashes separates alternatives
"We are going to the movies and/or to dinner."
"A student needs to study for many hours in order for him/her to earn an A." This construction is awkward. Usually the pronoun can be left out, or the sentence can be rewritten.