Writing Skills: Basic Punctuation
A1 Lesson 2: The Full Stop ( . )
What Is a Full Stop?
In English writing, marks like . , ? are called punctuation. They are like traffic signals for reading; they tell the reader when to stop, pause, or change their voice.
The most important one is the full stop ( . ). Think of it as a red light. It tells the reader, "Stop. One idea is finished." In American English, this is called a period.
The Two Most Important Rules
A full stop and a capital letter always work together as a team. You must remember both rules!
Use a full stop at the end of every complete idea or statement.
Always use a capital letter for the first word of the next sentence.
Common Mistakes
Here are the two most common mistakes that new learners make. Always check your writing for these!
1. Forgetting the full stop.
I like coffee it is delicious
I like coffee. It is delicious.
2. Forgetting the capital letter after the full stop.
The river is long. it is beautiful.
The river is long. It is beautiful.
Practice Your Writing 🎯
Exercise: Add the Punctuation
Read the text below. Rewrite it with the correct full stops and capital letters.
Original Text:
my friend works in a hotel he is very busy his job is difficult but he likes it
Correct Answer:
My friend works in a hotel. He is very busy. His job is difficult, but he likes it.
Your Writing Mission ⭐
Write About Your Family
Write three complete sentences about your family or your home. Remember to use a full stop after each sentence and a capital letter to begin the next one.
Example: My father is a fisherman. He works on a boat. My mother works at home.
Key Vocabulary
- Punctuation Special marks (like . , ?) used to make writing clear.
- Full Stop / Period The mark ( . ) used to end a statement.
- Statement A sentence that tells you something.
- Signal A sign that gives a message. A full stop is a signal to stop.