Punctuation—Square Brackets

Square brackets are a type of punctuation used in writing for various purposes. Here's an explanation of some common uses of square brackets:

1. Clarifying or Adding Information: Square brackets are often used to clarify or add information within a quoted text. If the original quote contains an error or lacks clarity, you can use square brackets to insert additional information that helps the reader understand the intended meaning. For example:
Original quote: "I am [sic] going to the store."
Clarification: "I am [not] going to the store."

2. Editorial Comments: Square brackets are used by editors or writers to include editorial comments or explanations within a quotation. These comments are usually not part of the original quote but are added to provide context or clarification. For example:
Original quote: "He [the President] announced his resignation."

3. In-Text Citations: In academic writing, square brackets may be used in in-text citations to add information to a direct quotation. This includes adding the author's name, year of publication, or page numbers. For example:
Original quote: "According to Smith, '[t]he findings were inconclusive'".
In-text citation: "According to Smith (2020), '[t]he findings were inconclusive'".

4. Alternative Words or Versions: Square brackets can be used to indicate variations in a quotation or to substitute words or phrases within a quote. This is done to maintain grammatical correctness or to modernize dated language. For example:
Original quote: "He said, 'I will go to the cinema'."
Alternative version: "He said, 'I [will] go to the movies'."

Remember, when using square brackets, it is important not to alter the original meaning of the quoted text. The use of square brackets should be clearly explained if necessary, especially in academic or formal writing.