Does the Asterisk Precede or Follow- Decoding the Placement of the Asterisk in Writing

Does an asterisk go before or after? This question may seem trivial at first glance, but it is actually an important aspect of typography and punctuation. Understanding the correct placement of an asterisk can greatly enhance the readability and clarity of written text. In this article, we will explore the correct usage of asterisks and provide you with the answer to this commonly asked question.

In the English language, asterisks are primarily used to indicate an explanation, clarification, or a note. They can be found in various contexts, such as in the middle of a sentence, at the end of a sentence, or even in a list. The correct placement of an asterisk is crucial to ensure that the reader can easily locate and understand the additional information it provides.

The general rule is that an asterisk should go after the word or phrase it is referring to. For example, if you want to provide an explanation for a term or concept, you would place the asterisk after the term. Here’s an example:

Complexity refers to the degree of difficulty or intricacy in a system or process.

In this case, the asterisk is placed after the word “Complexity” to indicate that there is an explanation following it. By doing so, the reader can quickly identify the additional information and easily find it within the text.

However, there are certain exceptions to this rule. In some cases, an asterisk may be placed before a word or phrase to denote a note or additional information. This is typically seen in footnotes or endnotes, where the asterisk is used to mark the beginning of a note. For example:

The concept of sustainability is crucial for environmental conservation efforts.

In this instance, the asterisk is placed before the word “sustainability” to indicate that there is a note related to the concept. The note would then be found at the bottom of the page or at the end of the document.

It is important to note that the placement of an asterisk can vary depending on the style guide or formatting requirements. Some style guides may have specific rules regarding the placement of asterisks, so it is always a good idea to consult the relevant guidelines when in doubt.

In conclusion, the correct placement of an asterisk is after the word or phrase it is referring to, unless it is used in a note or footnote where it may be placed before the relevant information. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your written text is clear, readable, and professional. So, to answer the question, an asterisk generally goes after, but there are exceptions depending on the context and style guide.