Write well. Write often. Edit wisely.
A writer asks about comma use with dependent clauses. Includes details about comma use for subordinate clauses before, after, and in the middle of independent clauses.
Continue reading Commas with Subordinate Clauses—A Reader’s Question
Is it a comma before which or before who or before that? Are there really rules and do I have to follow them in my fiction? Tips for comma use with essential and non-essential phrases and clauses.
Continue reading Restrictive or Not—When Do Clauses Need Commas?
Even professional writers might need a review of comma use. See what the wrong use of commas can do to a reader who otherwise loves your story.
Continue reading No Comma Necessary—Coordinating Conjunctions Don’t Always Need Commas
Punctuation rules are not always fun to study and learn. Yet a strong grasp of the rules can make you a stronger writer. Here are a few of the rules concerning commas, presented with a different slant—learn when not to use a comma.
Punctuating interrupted dialogue is a confusing topic for both writers and editors, but there is a definitive answer to the question, “how do you punctuate interrupted dialogue?” Use dashes.
Help your readers by learning the rules. Sometimes even big publishers don’t edit as they should—therefore you’ve got to do it yourself. Bad grammar and punctuation can turn away even the most determined reader.
Links to useful articles on grammar, punctuation, and writing fiction, especially helpful for students and educators beginning a new school year.
While most adverbs don’t require commas, some special adverbs do. A lesson on the use of commas with sentence adverbs and conjunctive adverbs.
What happens to the comma when you have a question mark or exclamation point midsentence where a comma should go?
Continue reading Getting Specific—Addressing Readers’ Examples (Part 2)
There are multiple ways to make changes to your story text. Make sure that you’re not using the same kinds of changes again and again.
The reader will focus on what stands out. Turn the reader's attention where you want it to go.
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Copyright © 2010-2018 E. A. Hill Visit Beth at A Novel Edit
Write well. Write often. Edit wisely.
