Quotation marks

Use double quotation marks (") for spoken words or short quoted phrases. 

Because we write in US English, periods and commas go within quotation marks.

Set off full-sentence quotes with a comma. 

"I'm surprised and pleased by the outcome," Scott said.

Do not use a comma to set off a partial quote. 

Scott said he was "surprised and pleased by the outcome."

Use single quotation marks for quotes within quotes.

John said, "A wise man once told me, 'Measure twice, cut once.'"

See also: Question marks

Rules for product and documentation copy

Do not use single or double quotation marks to call attention to words or phrases or when directly referring to interface elements. Instead, use bold formatting to differentiate text.

The following article explains how to collect data about the Total Operating Expenses for your organization.

The following article explains how to collect data about the Total Operating Expenses for your organization.

If you're tempted to put a word or phrase into quotes, try frontloading it to the start of the sentence to add emphasis.