The Dash has a few specialized purposes.

1. It can be used before a summarizing statement at the end of a sentence. To go with the pretty cheerleader, to forget Estelle and her gooseberry juice - this, Ralph decided, would be bliss.

2. It can be used to indicate a sudden interruption or change of thought either at the middle or end of a sentence.

3. "Kent," the cheerleader jabbered to Ralph, "is a real good player, isn't he - what did you say your name was?

4. It was obvious - and everybody but Ralph saw it - that the cheerleader was falling in love with Kent.

Both of these examples indicate interruptions in the flow and expressions of the main thought, so a dash must come between them.

It can be used to indicate an interrupted or incomplete remark.

1. I'd like to go with you after the game, but - " said the cheerleader.

2. But what?" asked Ralph.

3. But I - I'm - going with Kent."

Avoid excess use of dashes. They may cause a breathless, breezy sounding style. Used wisely and sparingly, they can be a very effective stylistic device.

The Hyphen also has specialized uses.

    1. The hyphen is used to break words at the end of a line.

           basket-
           ball
           cheer-
           leader
           gym-
           nasium
           goose-
           berry

When you need to separate a word at the end of a line, consult your dictionary. The dots between syllables indicate where words can be properly broken.

    2. The hyphen is used to create compound words.

           in-bounds
           one-and-one
           time-out
           man-on-man

There are many rules on hyphenating compound words. Rather than worry about them, simply consult your dictionary when you think may need a hyphen.

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