38c. The exclamation point
38cThe exclamation point
Use an exclamation point after a word group or sentence to express exceptional feeling or to provide special emphasis. The exclamation point is rarely appropriate in academic writing.
When Gloria entered the room, I switched on the lights, and we all yelled, “Surprise!”
tip: Do not overuse the exclamation point.
This sentence doesn’t need to be pumped up with an exclamation point. It is emphatic enough without it.