How to use Parenthesis (...Fun Stuff)

So when researching how to use parenthesis I found that there are most commonly three different reasons and ways to use them.

1. The first reason to use parenthesis is to include words that may not fit in a sentance but reveal some important information to the reader so they are needed in the sentance.

Ex: When teaching younger children (younger meaning ages 5 to 7), one must remember to always be patient.

2. The second most common reason to use parenthesis is to be used around numbers or letters to devide them from a sentence or word. These are most commonly found on tests and outlines.

Ex: 1) Animal
2) Reptile
3) Bird

3. The third way to use parenthesis is to add examples to a text.

Ex: Daily aerobic activity (dance, biking and running) are all great ways to stay in shape and keep healthy.

Keep in mind these are not the only reasons that parenthesis can be used. They are just the most commonly found ones. Here is a website for further explanation on the subject:

http://www.libraryonline.com/default.asp?pID=38