Does The Apostrophe Go Before Or After The Period

Does the Apostrophe Go Before or After the Period? A Definitive Guide

The humble apostrophe. A tiny mark, yet a source of endless grammatical debate. While most punctuation rules are relatively straightforward, the placement of an apostrophe in relation to a period (or full stop) often leaves writers scratching their heads. This comprehensive guide aims to clarify this common punctuation puzzle once and for all. We'll delve into the intricacies of apostrophe usage, explore the correct placement, and debunk common misconceptions.

Understanding the Role of the Apostrophe

Before tackling the period-apostrophe conundrum, let's establish a solid understanding of the apostrophe's function. Primarily, the apostrophe serves two crucial roles in English grammar:

1. Indicating Possession

This is perhaps the most common use. The apostrophe shows ownership or possession. For example:

• The dog's bone: The bone belongs to the dog.
• The children's toys: The toys belong to the children.
• Shakespeare's plays: The plays were written by Shakespeare.

Note the difference between singular and plural possessive forms. Singular nouns generally take an apostrophe followed by an 's' ('s), while plural nouns ending in 's' usually only require an apostrophe after the 's' (s'). However, there are exceptions, particularly with proper nouns ending in 's' (e.g., James's book, but often shortened to James' book).

2. Indicating Contractions

Apostrophes also signal contractions – the shortening of two words into one. Common examples include:

• can't (cannot)
• won't (will not)
• it's (it is or it has)
• they're (they are)
• she's (she is or she has)

Careful attention to context is crucial here, as the meaning can vary dramatically. "It's" can be "it is" or "it has," requiring careful consideration of the sentence's overall meaning.

The Period-Apostrophe Dilemma: The Definitive Answer

Now, to the main question: does the apostrophe go before or after the period? The simple answer is: the apostrophe almost always goes before the period. This rule applies whether the apostrophe signifies possession or contraction.

Consider these examples:

• Incorrect: The dog's bone.

• Correct: The dog's bone.

• Incorrect: It's raining.

• Correct: It's raining.

Exceptions to the Rule: Rare Occurrences

While the "apostrophe before the period" rule is almost universally applicable, there are extremely rare exceptions. These exceptions are highly specific and usually involve stylistic choices within certain types of documents. These exceptions often arise in situations where:

• Specific formatting styles are in place: Some very specific style guides (like certain legal or academic guides) might have unique rules that deviate from the standard placement. This is not a standard across the board, but rather highly specialized. It's always crucial to adhere to the style guide provided.
• Typographic limitations: In cases involving extremely tight spacing constraints in unusual design layouts, an editor might choose to place the apostrophe after a period, solely for visual presentation purposes. However, this should be viewed as an exceptional case and not a universally accepted practice.

In virtually all cases of general writing, whether it's a blog post, an essay, or a business email, the apostrophe goes before the period.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Many writing errors stem from a misunderstanding of the apostrophe's role. Let's examine some common mistakes:

1. The Its/It's Confusion

The most frequent error involves confusing "its" (possessive) and "it's" (it is/it has). Remember:

• Its: Shows possession (e.g., The cat licked its paw.)
• It's: Contraction of "it is" or "it has" (e.g., It's a beautiful day; It's been raining.)

2. Incorrect Possessive Plurals

Another common error is incorrectly forming the possessive plural. Plural nouns ending in 's' only require an apostrophe, not an apostrophe and an 's'.

• Correct: The girls' toys.
• Incorrect: The girls's toys.

3. Overuse or Misuse of Apostrophes

Some writers mistakenly add apostrophes where they are unnecessary. Apostrophes are not used to form the plural of most nouns.

• Correct: Several cars.
• Incorrect: Several car's.

4. Inconsistent Apostrophe Usage

Maintaining consistency is crucial. Choose a style (either using the full form or a contraction) and stick with it throughout your writing. Switching back and forth creates an unprofessional and confusing tone.

Mastering Apostrophe Placement: Practical Tips

To master apostrophe placement, follow these practical tips:

• Read widely: Immersing yourself in well-written material helps you internalize correct punctuation.
• Use a style guide: Refer to a reputable style guide (like the Chicago Manual of Style or the AP Stylebook) for clarification on specific cases.
• Proofread meticulously: Always proofread your work carefully before submitting it.
• Utilize grammar checkers: While grammar checkers aren't perfect, they can identify potential punctuation errors.
• Seek feedback: Ask others to review your writing to catch any missed errors.

The Importance of Correct Punctuation

Mastering punctuation, including the correct placement of apostrophes and periods, is essential for clear and effective communication. Errors in punctuation can lead to misunderstandings, ambiguity, and a less professional image. By understanding the rules and consistently applying them, you can significantly improve your writing and enhance your credibility.

Conclusion: Clarity and Consistency are Key

The placement of the apostrophe relative to the period is a seemingly small detail, yet it plays a significant role in clear and professional writing. By remembering the rule – the apostrophe almost always precedes the period – and avoiding common errors, you can significantly elevate the quality of your writing. Consistency and attention to detail are crucial elements of effective communication, and mastering apostrophe usage is a key step toward achieving this goal. Continuous practice and a commitment to accuracy are vital for solidifying your understanding and improving your writing skills. Therefore, pay close attention to details, proofread diligently, and strive for consistency in your punctuation choices. This attention to detail will elevate the overall professionalism and readability of your written work.