
A misplaced comma can change the meaning
A misplaced comma can change the meaning — and, sometimes, the responsibility attributed by a sentence.
A misplaced comma can change the meaning — and, sometimes, the responsibility attributed by a sentence.
Punctuation is not an indication of where to breathe. It organizes sentence structure, separates elements and helps the reader recognize relationships between ideas.
Compare “No, wait” and “Don’t wait.” The presence of the comma turns a negative response into a request to wait. In corporate documents, differences of this kind can alter an instruction or create doubt about an obligation.
Punctuation builds meaning
Proofreading considers both grammatical rules and the intent of the text. It is not about inserting commas mechanically, but about checking whether the sentence communicates exactly what it is supposed to communicate.
Before a detail changes your message, request professional proofreading.