The Mechanics of Writing

The Mechanics of Writing

3.1. Spelling

3.1.1. Consistency

Spelling, including hyphenation, should be consistent throughout the research paper –except in quotation, which must retain the spelling of the original, whether correct or incorrect.

3.1.3 Plurals

Consult a dictionary for guidance. If the dictionary gives more than one plural form for a word (appendixes, appendices), use the first listed.

3.1.4. Foreign Words

If you quote material in a foreign language, you must reproduce all accents and other marks exactly as they appear in the original, if you need marks that are not available on your word processor or typewriter, write them by hand.

3.2 Punctuation

3.2.1 The Purpose of Punctuation

The primary purpose of punctuation is to ensure the clarity and readability of writing. It adds meaning to written words and guides the understanding of readers as they move through sentences.

3.2.2. Commas = (,)

3.2.3. Semicolon = (;)

3.2.4. Colons = (: )

3.2.5. Dashes = (--)

3.2.5. Parentheses = ((  ))

3.2.6. Hyphens = (-)

C- Use a hyphen in a compound adjective ending with the present participle             (e.g. loving) or the past participle (e.g. inspired) of a verb when the adjective precedes a noun.

Sports-loving throng

Fear-inspired loyalty

Hate-filled speed

3.2.9. Square Brackets = ([ ])

3.2.10. Slashes = (/ )

3.2.11. Periods = (.  )

3.2.11. Question Marks = (?  )

3.2.11. Exclamation Points = (!  )

3.2.12. Spacing after Concluding Punctuation Marks

Publications in United States today usually have the same spacing after a period,   

A question mark or an exclamation point as between words on same line.