Punctuation

In general, punctuation is such a complex topic that referring to the appropriate sections in CMS is the preferred option. However, since the correct use of an ellipsis is sometimes mysterious, the following guidelines are provided.

• For omissions within a sentence when using Word, insert a space, the ellipsis symbol (Insert/Symbol/Symbol), and a space.
• For omissions between sentences, use closing punctuation before an ellipsis if the preceding sentence is grammatically complete. If the preceding sentence is not grammatically complete, do not use closing punctuation. Place a space directly before and after the ellipsis.

For more complete information about using an ellipsis, see CMS 11.51-11.66.