A full stop is the most commonly used punctuation marks in the English grammar. We also known it as a period (.) in American English grammar. We use full stop fifty percent among all punctuation marks in English grammar. Improper use of full stop can break the meaning of a sentence. Symbol for full stop is a single dot (.). Mostly it is used at the end of a statement or a sentence, but sometime we use it in the middle of a sentence.

Below are the main usage of a full stop in a sentence. Read out all points carefully and note down main points to master your punctuation skills.

Use of full stop at the end of statement

We use a full stop at the end of a statement that is complete in all sense containing at least one main verb. Look at examples below.

• The office was closed.
• I like mangoes.
• Mr. khan is very intelligent.

Use of full stop at the end of abbreviations

We also use a period at the end of abbreviations that are used for a complete word. Look at examples below.

• Dr. Raheed is happy today.
• Chief Justice Ali Rehman (Rtd.) will be a chairperson.
• I like mangoes, apples, bananas, etc. during breakfast.

We also use full stop for abbreviation that are derived from phrases and used after each letter e.g. (exempli gratia), i.e. (id est- that is

• Black color is beautiful for small vehicles e.g. cars, bikes, etc.

Use of full stop at the end of incomplete thoughts

We also use a full stop at the end of incomplete thought or to show pause (… three times, known as ellipses also) as in dramas or plays to show half spoken thoughts. Look at examples below.

• If you will come late, you will…
• The reporter said: “All shops… should stay open… until seven o’clock.

Exercise:

Here is an exercise for students to place full stop where necessary in the sentences below

• I should like to visit USA one day my dearest friend lives there
• Dr Jane examined carefully she could find nothing wrong she said I need to take rest
• At new year celebration we saw a movie about moon on tv last evening there was a wonderful journey to moon but moon seemed at long distance