Punctuation & Capitalization: Statements and Questions: quick revision, 10 bites

Two Sentence Types, Two Punctuation Rules

Statement or question? Punctuation decides.

Every sentence you rewrite is either a **statement** or a **question** — and each one demands a different ending mark.

Takeaway. Identify the sentence type first — then choose the correct ending mark.

Statement vs Question: The Core Terms

Know the two types by name.

Takeaway. Statements inform; questions ask. The ending mark reveals which is which.

How to Rewrite Any Sentence Correctly

Three steps to fix any sentence.

Takeaway. Capitalize first, decide the type, then punctuate — in that order.

Worked Examples from the Exercise

See the rule in action.

Takeaway. The same sentence can change meaning entirely based on its ending mark.

Question Words Are Your Clue

Spot the question word instantly.

Takeaway. Question words and helping verbs at the start signal a question mark at the end.

The Most Common Rewriting Error

Don't mix up your ending marks.

Takeaway. Match the ending mark to the sentence's purpose, not its length or shape.

Score Full Marks on Rewrite Questions

Two marks lost, two marks saved.

Takeaway. Examiners check two things: the first capital letter and the final punctuation mark.

Remember the Two Marks

Capital start, correct end.

Think of every sentence as having a **hat** (capital letter at the start) and **shoes** (punctuation at the end). No sentence leaves the house without both.

Takeaway. Hat on top, shoes at the bottom — every sentence needs both.

Why This Matters Beyond the Classroom

Punctuation changes everything.

In texts, emails, and exams, the same words can mean completely different things depending on punctuation. 'You are coming.' vs 'You are coming?' — one is a fact, the other is a hopeful question.

Takeaway. Correct punctuation prevents misreading and makes your intent clear.

The Question Mark Has a Name

It's called an interrogation mark.

The question mark (?) is also called an **interrogation mark** — from the Latin *interrogare*, meaning 'to ask'. It has been used in English writing since the 15th century.

Takeaway. The question mark's formal name reflects its job: to interrogate, or ask.