Choosing a Punctuation Type

Some people argue that specific types of punctuation should be used for particular scenarios. Generally, all three types of punctuation—commas, parentheses (brackets), or dashes—can be interchanged.

Using different types of punctuation can reduce confusion. For example, which of the following sentences is easier to read?

To make French lime sorbet, you will need water, sugar, lime juice, not the kind from a bottle, and zest.

To make French lime sorbet, you will need water, sugar, lime juice (not the kind from a bottle) and zest.

The second sentence is easier to understand. Readers understand that "not the kind from a bottle" refers to the type of "lime juice" that should be used. The first sentence is more confusing.

Using different types of punctuation can inject variety into a paragraph or a long text. Imagine reading a 10-page text where the author only used round brackets () to provide additional information to readers. Readers prefer a bit of variety when they read. Alternating between the three types of parenthetical punctuation offers more variety.

Effects Created by Different Types of Punctuation

Alternating between the various types of punctuation to create a parenthetical aside may provide variety. Still, authors should be aware of the following nuances associated with each kind of punctuation:

• Commas (,): people are used to seeing commas in sentences, so this form of punctuation doesn't call much attention to itself. However, as discussed above, it can become confusing if there are too many commas in a sentence being used for different purposes.
  

• Parentheses (()): unlike commas, parentheses clearly communicate to readers that what is within them is an aside. They stick out clearly. However, using parentheses on official correspondence can be interpreted by readers as being too informal.
  

• Dashes (—): like parentheses, dashes stick out clearly, although some people feel that they are a little bare.