Brackets and Parentheses

When to Use Brackets vs. Parentheses

• Parentheses ( ): Add extra information, explanations, or asides.
• Brackets [ ]: Add clarification, corrections, or comments inside quoted text.

Examples

• She went to the store (after school).
• The answer is [42].
• He said, "I will go (if I can)."
• The dog (a golden retriever) barked.
• Add the numbers [in brackets] first.
• My favorite color (blue) is also hers.
• The teacher said, "Read the instructions (carefully)."
• The book [which was new] was on the table.
• She whispered (very quietly) to her friend.
• The sign said, "No entry [except staff]".

Worksheet: Fill in the Blank

1. He is my friend ___from school___.
2. The answer is ___15___.
3. She said, "I will help ___if I can___."
4. The cat ___which was black___ ran away.
5. My favorite food ___pizza___ is delicious.

Tips for Using Brackets and Parentheses

• Use parentheses for extra information that can be left out.
• Use brackets to add or change words in a quote.
• Don't overuse—too many can make writing confusing.

More Resources

• Learn about punctuation, sentence types, and parts of speech.
• Try more figurative language or reading comprehension.