To show emphasis, we use an exclamation mark at the end of a statement, a word or a sentence. We frequently use an exclamation mark (!) to indicate strong feeling or give a command.

Examples of exclamation marks in sentences:

• Speak! I am listening to you.
• Yes! You are right.
• Standup! Sing for our victory!
• What a lovely day!
• That’s unbelievable!
• Hurrah! We have won the match.
• Help! Help! My car is on fire.

Note: When we place an exclamation mark at the end of any sentence, we use no other punctuation mark e.g. question mark or full stop (period).Look at the sentences below:

• Are you crazy!
• Can you speak loudly!

Note: When a sentence ends with an abbreviation, you have to place an exclamation mark if statement falls under exclamatory class. If a sentence ends with abbreviation and statement carries a question, then place a question mark at the end of sentence followed by full stop.look at below examples to understand.

• I am happy! I have passed my B.Ed.!
• Can you pass M.Ed.?
•  M.Ed. is easy to pass rather than B.Ed.

Exercise for the students:

Read out sentences below and place necessary punctuation marks where needed.

• Wow stop here what a lovely scene is this let me take a shot
• I am starving please give me a glass of milk
• I passed my exam what a lovely day