The Ellipsis (...) - Editing Tips

Basic Punctuation for Fiction Writers - The Ellipsis (...)

Definition: it's a series of (usually three) dots such as … that indicates an intentional omission of a word, sentence, or whole section from a text without altering its original meaning. (Wikipedia)

(Just a side note: I've been using this wrong the whole time. What a bummer!) 

Usage

1. An ellipsis takes the place of omitted words in a quotation

Example: She was writing about battles, knights, swords … until her hand started to hurt.

2. To indicate a long thoughtful pause

Example: I wanted to see him … no, I needed to see him.

3. Indicates trailing off (as opposed to an abrupt interruption)

Example: "I wouldn't steal your mother's necklace. I just wouldn't do that to you. I wouldn't …"

4. To indicate a continuation of time

Example: The timer counted down: ten, nine, eight …

5. To indicate pauses in conversation as if a “realization” is occurring

Example: "Why would he … would they?”

Hey guys, 

I'm gathering all these to self-edit my stories and I hope you'll find them useful as well. 

Let me know in the comments if anything is missing. 

Thank you so much for your time and have a nice day.

Take care. 

PS. Here are the links to my writing-related books for self-study purposes. These are the material I gathered when I started to get more and more into the craft of storytelling. I hope you'll find them somewhat useful. 

Glossary of Writing Terms

Story Discovery

Simple Grammar and Punctuation

Commonly Confused Words