Exclamation Points and Question Marks

Aside from the period, two other punctuation marks may end sentences: the exclamation point (called the exclamation mark in British English) and the question mark. They look like this: ! and ? respectively.

The exclamation point is used at the end of exclamatory sentences, which are similar to declarative sentences but have more emotion behind them. They can convey excitement, anger, and numerous other powerful feelings, depending on the context. "I can't believe the university accepted my application!" "I want that cookie right now!" They can also be used at the end of imperative sentences (sentences that give orders) to make it seem more forceful. "Go to your room!"

The exclamation point is rather controversial. Some think we should do away with it altogether, using a period in its stead. We at thewordiswhom.com, however, firmly believe that the exclamation point is a wonderful way to add meaning to sentences!

On the other hand, the question mark is definitely here to stay. Its usage is rather simple — it is used at the end of interrogative sentences, which ask questions or request information. "By whom was this done?" Please note that indirect questions, like "I wonder by whom it was done," should not use a question mark; a period or exclamation point will suffice.

Additionally, rhetorical questions are usually given question marks, but they may also have periods — this is merely a stylistic choice on the part of the author. "Who knows?" and "Who knows." are both correct, but "Who knows?" is certainly more common. A rhetorical question can even end in an exclamation point if the question is forceful enough!

This sums up exclamation points and question marks. We hope you don't have any trouble with these punctuation marks from now on! You won't, will you?