Punctuation

Correct punctuation is important because it shows how the different parts of the text are related and prevents ambiguity.

STE does not give you rules about general punctuation. For more information, refer to official reference books. For example:

- John Kirkman: Punctuation Matters - Advice on punctuation for scientific and technical writing. 

Rule 8.1 You can use all standard English punctuation marks except the semicolon (;).

The semicolon (;) is not approved in STE because it lets you write very long sentences. It is also difficult to use correctly. As an alternative to the semicolon, always write two different sentences.

Examples:

Non-STE: (1) Examine the removed parts; replace the damaged ones.

STE: (1) Examine the removed parts for damage.

(2) Replace the damaged part(s).

Non-STE: The battery is not user-replaceable; it can only be replaced by an approved service provider.

STE: Do not replace the battery. Only an approved service provider can replace it.