Square Brackets #1: Understanding Their Usage in Writing
Writing can be a challenging art, and with the rise of digital communication, it’s now more important than ever to express ourselves in writing. With all these advancements, there still may be certain elements that writers knowingly or unknowingly leave out, making it difficult to convey their message across.
One of these elements is the square bracket. Square brackets are often overlooked in everyday writing, but their usage has a significant impact on the context in which they are used.
1. Square Brackets
Square brackets are often used to signify that the writer is including additional material that isn’t part of the original text. They can be used to indicate a change, correction, or omission in a quotation.
For example, let’s consider this sentence: “The cat was black.” Now, let’s say we wanted to include an added detail: “The cat [who was typically well-behaved] was black.”
In this example, the square brackets indicate that “who was typically well-behaved” wasn’t a part of the original sentence but is crucial to the context.
2. Square Brackets in Quotes
Square brackets are especially important when writing quotes. They can be used to modify the context of a quote, so it’s essential to use them correctly.
For example, if we were to quote a sentence and wanted to correct a typographical error in the original source, we would use square brackets to show that we have made changes to the original text. For instance, let’s consider the following sentence: “The sun raised in the West.” Obviously, this is incorrect since the sun rises in the East. Using square brackets, we can correct the quote and quote it as “The sun [rises] in the East.”
3. Square Brackets for Clarification
Square brackets can also be used as a way to add in extra information to clarify the context. For example, let’s say we were writing about a historical figure who had a title that’s no longer used in modern times. We could clarify their title by including the modern equivalent in square brackets.
This technique is also particularly useful when trying to write about complex topics, such as scientific concepts or technical terms. Including additional explanations, tips, or definitions in the square brackets can help readers better understand the context, making their reading experience more enjoyable.
Conclusion
In conclusion, square brackets are an essential yet often overlooked aspect of writing. Incorrect use of square brackets can lead to confusion, and it’s essential to use them correctly to ensure that your writing is as clear as possible.
Keeping the guidelines discussed in mind, writers can use square brackets to add value to their writing, making it more informative, engaging, and professional. With practice, writers can skillfully use square brackets to take their writing to the next level, ensuring that their intent and message land as they intended.
