The Mechanics of Writing in English: Proper Utilization Ensures Clarity - Essay Sample

Introduction

There are various mechanics of the style of writing in the English language. They include the use of quotation marks, apostrophes, semicolons, colons, capitalization, as well as commas and parentheses (Camp & Satterwhite, 2019, 15). Proper utilization of these mechanics ensures that there is proper communication of the intended message, and professionalism is shown in the different workplaces. The writer is, therefore, able to guide the reader through a specific message. Using these mechanics also ensure that variety is added in our writing (Camp & Satterwhite, 403). Each mechanic of writing is used differently, and in some special circumstances, they may be used interchangeably with others. We will focus on showing the difference between a semicolon, a colon, and a dash, as well as writing an original sentence to show the correct use of each.

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Semicolon

Semicolons are used for various reasons. They are used before explanatory words, before introductory words that begin second clauses in the sentence and in place of coordinating conjunctions to join independent clauses. They are essential in ensuring that the reader pauses between the sentences, and the reader can understand the message being communicated clearly (Camp & Satterwhite, 404). The following are examples of sentences using semicolons.

Derrick completed his Postgraduate in Medicine in December; he started volunteering at Red Cross in February to help those affected by Covid19.

There are several ways of accomplishing tasks, for example, doing them yourself, outsourcing, or seeking help from friends.

I love that car; however, I cannot afford it.

Colon

The colon is used to emphasize essential thoughts or words (Camp & Satterwhite, 408). It is also used before listed items (Camp & Satterwhite, 406). Instead of using semicolons, a colon is used before a list of items and mostly in cases where there is the anticipation of explanation or enumeration. Special focus is put when using colons. In some cases, capitalization is required after the use of colons, especially if it begins a complete sentence that is being emphasized or when the sentence is stating a formal rule (Camp & Satterwhite, 408). The following are examples of sentences using a colon.

We will cover the following topics next semester: Economics, Business Law, and Accounting.

He was motivated by just one thing: money.

The UEFA Champions League includes teams from different countries: England, Spain, Italy, and France.

Dashes

Dashes are mostly used as an indication of breaks in thoughts or structures of sentences (Camp & Satterwhite, 409). As compared to colons and semicolons, dashes are seen to forcefully make the reader pause. It can, therefore, be noted that the dash is crucial mainly in the indication of forceful summarizing, repetition as well as afterthoughts (Camp & Satterwhite, 410). Dashes can also be used to set off words either at the end of a sentence or within the sentence. The following are examples of sentences using dashes.

The Company's founders-Brian Rooney, Kevin Paul, and Sarah Miller- have requested for an urgent board meeting.

The title of the book will be "The Invisible,"-the author assured us today.

Educational books, Motivational articles, Inspiring books- all are available at the bookshops in town.

The free additional services are only offered to those who pay on cash-no one else receives them!

Conclusion

Semicolons, colons, and dashes have been seen to have different uses. For example, the semicolons are used before explanatory words, before introductory words that begin second clauses in the sentence and in place of coordinating conjunctions to join independent clauses. On the other hand, colons are used to emphasize essential thoughts as well as before listed items. Finally, dashes have been shown that they are essential in bringing forceful summarizing, afterthoughts, and repetition. Clear sentences have been given as examples to show how these mechanics are used.

References

Camp, S. C., & Satterwhite, M. L. (2019). College English and Business Communication. (11th Ed). New York: McGraw-Hill Education.