exclamation point

Only used in columns or op/ed pieces, with discretion. If used in a quote, it is placed inside the quotation marks and never followed by a comma.

Examples:

• We demand the ADA be updated so that it finally conveys our full rights as disabled people who live in this society!
• We are equal citizens under the law! Jones demanded.

To convey emphatic expressions or quotations in news pieces, describe the emphasis following the quote instead of using an exclamation point. This is the best practice because screen readers do not read the exclamation point or add emphasis to the words when it is present.

Examples:

• This poor treatment of children with IEPs simply cannot stand, shouted teacher Shirley Doe at the contentious school board meeting Tuesday.
• We are equal citizens under the law, Jones exclaimed, pounding his fist on the arm of his wheelchair.

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