Writing Mechanics: Punctuation   embedded lists vertical lists
introductory clauses quotations

  
Proper punctuation is crucial in conveying information precisely. The most glaring error results in run-on sentences. This external link provides assistance in punctuating independent clauses and avoiding run-on sentences).

Other common errors involve punctuating:

Apostrophes Commas Colons
Dashes Ellipsis ( . . .) Exclamation Points
Hyphens Italics Parantheses
Quotation Marks Question Marks Semicolons
Multiple Punctuation      


Material for the above links is from "Basic Prose Style and Mechanics," by Craig Waddell , The Writing Center at Rensselaer, 1987.