Writing and Editing Punctuation 2

Question 1

Which sentence correctly uses a colon?

Accepted Answer

She needed the following: pens, paper, and folders.

Answer

A colon should follow a complete independent clause before introducing a list or explanation.

Question 2

Which sentence correctly uses an ellipsis?

Accepted Answer

The original quote read, 'Edit carefully…and proofread twice.'

Answer

An ellipsis inside a quotation indicates that words have been omitted from the original.

Question 3

Which sentence uses hyphens correctly in a compound modifier?

Accepted Answer

She submitted a well-written report.

Answer

Hyphenate compound modifiers that appear before the noun they modify.

Question 4

Which punctuation mark is used to indicate a sudden break or interruption in dialogue?

Accepted Answer

Em dash (—)

Answer

An em dash signals an abrupt interruption or break in thought within dialogue.

Question 5

Which sentence uses parentheses correctly?

Accepted Answer

The AP Stylebook (first published in 1953) is widely used.

Answer

Parentheses enclose supplementary information without requiring additional commas outside them.

Writing and Editing Practice Test