When should you use a period at the end of a sentence?

A period should be used at the end of a sentence in the following situations:

1. Declarative Sentences: A period is used to mark the end of a declarative sentence, which makes a statement or expresses an opinion. For example: "I love to read books."

2. Imperative Sentences: A period is used at the end of an imperative sentence, which gives a command or makes a request. For example: "Please close the door."

3. Abbreviations: A period is used after abbreviations, such as "Mr.", "Dr.", or "etc." For example: "She visited Dr. Smith for her check-up."

4. Indirect Questions: A period is used at the end of a sentence that reports an indirect question. For example: "He asked me if I had finished my homework."

5. Standalone Sentences: A period is used at the end of a sentence that stands alone, without being part of a larger sentence or dialogue. For example: "The sun sets in the west."

It is important to note that a period is not used at the end of sentences that are exclamatory or interrogative. Exclamatory sentences use an exclamation mark (!) to express strong emotions or surprise, while interrogative sentences use a question mark (?) to ask a question.