Do you want to know how to make an em dash in Google Docs? The em dash excels as a flexible punctuation mark. It can step in for commas, parentheses, or colons within a sentence. It’s longer than a hyphen and shorter than a dash. The em dash adds emphasis or shows a break in thought. For instance: “I can’t believe it’s finally summer—or is it just wishful thinking?” Learning how to make and use it effectively is important, especially if you usually write in Google Docs.
Let’s dive into the ways to create an em dash in Google Docs.
Table of Contents
Methods to Create an Em Dash
You can use a few methods to insert an em dash in Google Docs. We’ll look at:
- Keyboard Shortcuts
- Using the Special Characters Menu
- Copy and Pasting
Let’s go into each method in detail.
1. Keyboard Shortcuts
Keyboard shortcuts make it easy to insert an em dash when typing. Here’s how you can do it:
- On Windows: Press
Ctrl+Alt+-(the minus key on the numeric keypad). If you don’t have a numeric keypad, useCtrl+Shift+U, release them, and then type2014, then pressEnter. - On Mac: The shortcut is simpler. Press
Option+Shift+-(the hyphen key).
These shortcuts will allow you to insert an em dash instantly, saving you the hassle of finding it in a menu.
2. Using the Special Characters Menu
If you’d prefer a more visual method, Google Docs has a built-in feature for inserting special characters. Here’s how to locate the em dash through this method:
- Open your document in Google Docs.
- Click on the “Insert” tab.
- From the dropdown menu, select “Special characters.”
- A dialog box will open. In the search box, type “em dash.”
- You will see the em dash appear in the list. Click on it, and it will appear in your document at the cursor’s location.
This method is particularly useful if you are unsure where the em dash is on your keyboard or want to explore other special characters.
3. Copy and Pasting
If you have an em dash somewhere else, you can copy and paste it into your document. Here’s a quick way to do it:
- Find a source with the em dash (like this page or a previous document).
- Highlight the em dash with your cursor.
- Right-click and select “Copy,” or use the shortcut on your keyboard:
Ctrl+C(on Windows) orCommand+C(on Mac). - Go to your Google Docs document and place the cursor where you want to insert it.
- Right-click and select “Paste,” or press
Ctrl+V(on Windows) orCommand+V(on Mac).
While this method might not be the quickest for frequent use, it’s a good backup when necessary.
Understanding When to Use an Em Dash
The proper usage of the em dash can elevate your writing style. Here are common scenarios where an em dash shines:
A. Indicating a Break in Thought
An em dash can show pauses or changes in thoughts. For example:
“I wanted to go to the party—it seemed everyone would be there—but I decided to stay home instead.”
B. Setting Off Parenthetical Information
Sometimes, you may want to include additional details within a sentence without using parentheses:
“The movie was an unexpected hit—surprising everyone involved—with its unique storyline.”
C. Adding Emphasis
You can also use an em dash to emphasize a particular point:
“I have one goal this year—success.”
D. In Lists
An em dash can be useful in breaking up complex lists:
“I will buy the following groceries—milk, bread, eggs, and cheese—today.”
E. Connecting Related Ideas
Finally, an em dash can draw connections between related ideas:
“There’s only one thing left to say—let’s get started!”
Potential Issues When Using Em Dashes
While the em dash is a powerful tool in writing, some people use it incorrectly. Here are a few tips to avoid common mistakes:
- Avoid Overuse: They may lose their impact if you use them too frequently. Use them selectively for more emphasis.
- Watch the Spacing: The dashes are often not surrounded by spaces. However, style guides differ, so follow the appropriate guide for your writing.
- Know Your Alternatives: Sometimes, commas or parentheses can work just as well. Don’t feel the need to use an em dash for every break in thought.
Frequently Asked Questions Related to How To Make An Em Dash In Google Docs
Q. What is an em dash?
A. An em dash is a long punctuation mark that indicates breaks in thought or adds emphasis to a sentence.
Q. How do I insert an em dash using the keyboard on Windows?
A. Press Ctrl + Alt + - on the numeric keypad or Ctrl + Shift + U followed by 2014 and Enter.
Q. Is there a shortcut for Mac users to create an em dash?
A. Yes, press Option + Shift + - to insert an em dash.
Q. What if I forget the keyboard shortcut?
A. You can use the “Special Characters” menu under “Insert” to find and insert an em dash.
Q. Are em dashes used with or without spaces?
A. Typically, em dashes are not surrounded by spaces, but it’s good to check the style guide you are following.
Q. Can I copy and paste an em dash from another document?
A. Absolutely! Copy the em dash from any document and paste it into your Google Docs file.
Q. Why is it called an em dash?
A. The em dash gets its name from its length, roughly the width of the letter “M.”
Q. Are there specific situations where an em dash is preferred over commas?
A. Yes, em dashes can be more emphatic and highlight interruptions in thought compared to commas.
Q. Can I create an em dash on my phone in Google Docs?
A. Absolutely! You can use the ‘Insert’ menu similarly on mobile devices to find and insert special characters.
Q. How can I check if I am using em dashes correctly?
A. Use style guides like the Chicago Manual of Style or AP Stylebook as references for proper usage.
Conclusion
Knowing how to make an em dash in Google Docs adds a dynamic element and enhances your writing. You can use keyboard shortcuts, access the special characters menu, or copy and paste them. Once you get the hang of using em dashes, you can emphasize your writing more effectively. Remember to use them sparingly to maintain their impact, and don’t hesitate to explore the alternatives available for different contexts.
Enjoy making your writing clearer and more engaging with em dashes!
