1. Periods

• Use at the end of complete sentences with no space between the last word and the period.
• Do not use periods in headlines, subheadings, or bullet points unless the bullet is a full sentence.
• Example:
  • ✅ Use commas, not semicolons, in this context
  • ❌ Use commas, not semicolons, in this context.

2. Commas

• Use the Oxford comma in lists.
  • ✅ Our plans cover dental, vision, and medical benefits.
• Use commas after introductory phrases.
  • ✅ After reviewing the claim, we approved it.
• Use commas to set off nonessential clauses.
  • ✅ Our team, known for fast turnaround, responded within the hour.

3. Colons

• Use colons to introduce a list or explanation.
  • ✅ You’ll need the following: your ID, insurance card, and login credentials.
• Don’t use a colon right after a verb or preposition.
  • ❌ Your options include: dental, vision, and FSA.
  • ✅ Your options include dental, vision, and FSA.

4. Semicolons

• Avoid semicolons in marketing and casual communication. If needed (e.g., in formal internal documentation), use to connect two related independent clauses.
  • ✅ The deadline is approaching; please finalize your tasks.
• In most cases, break into two sentences or use a dash instead.

5. Dashes

• Use an em dash (—) to emphasize or break up thought.
  • ✅ We’ve updated our process — and it’s never been easier to use.
• Avoid double hyphens (–) — use the proper em dash.
• Avoid overusing dashes in the same paragraph.