Does the period go before or after the quotation mark? This is a common question that often arises in the realm of writing and grammar. The answer to this question may vary depending on the style guide or the context in which the quotation is used. Understanding the correct placement of the period in relation to the quotation mark is crucial for maintaining proper punctuation and clarity in written communication.
In the United States, the Modern Language Association (MLA) style guide recommends placing the period inside the quotation marks when the quotation is a complete sentence. For example, if you quote a sentence from a book or an article, the period should be placed after the closing quotation mark. Here’s an example:
“The period goes inside the quotation marks when it is a complete sentence.” (Smith, 2021)
On the other hand, when the quotation is part of a larger sentence, the period should be placed outside the quotation marks. This is known as the “in-text” citation format. For instance:
According to Smith (2021), “the period goes before the quotation mark when it is part of a larger sentence.” This rule ensures that the punctuation is clear and consistent within the text.
The American Psychological Association (APA) style guide follows a similar approach. When a quotation is a complete sentence, the period is placed inside the quotation marks. However, when the quotation is part of a larger sentence, the period is placed outside the quotation marks.
In the United Kingdom, the Oxford style guide suggests placing the period outside the quotation marks when the quotation is part of a larger sentence. This rule is also applied in other English-speaking countries, such as Canada and Australia.
It’s important to note that the placement of the period in relation to the quotation mark can vary depending on the context. For example, in dialogue, the period is typically placed after the closing quotation mark, even if the quotation is part of a larger sentence. This is because dialogue is treated as a separate entity from the surrounding text.
In conclusion, the placement of the period in relation to the quotation mark depends on the style guide and the context in which the quotation is used. By understanding these rules, writers can ensure their work is grammatically correct and clear to their audience. So, does the period go before or after the quotation mark? The answer is: it depends.
