# Avoid periods at the end of headings (EK00022)

import { Aside, Badge } from '@astrojs/starlight/components';

Headings are labels, not sentences, so they read better without a terminal period across your documentation. EkLine flags a period at the end of a heading and suggests removing it (rule EK00022).

## Why remove periods from headings in documentation?

A trailing period turns a heading into something that looks like an unfinished sentence. Headings work as short labels that readers scan, and a period adds visual noise without adding meaning. Removing it keeps every heading on your page consistent and easier to skim.

## What EkLine flags

EK00022 matches a period at the end of a heading and suggests the same heading without it.

- ❌ **Incorrect:** Install the CLI.
- ✅ **Correct:** Install the CLI
- ❌ **Incorrect:** Configure your project.
- ✅ **Correct:** Configure your project

## How to fix

Remove the period from the end of the heading. Keep the rest of the wording as it is.

## FAQ

### Should a heading end with a period?

No. A heading is a short label that readers scan, and a trailing period makes it look like an unfinished sentence.

### How is this rule different from EK00023?

EK00022 covers only a trailing period, while [EK00023](/reviewer/rules/ek00023/) covers any end punctuation, including question marks and colons.

## Rule details

| Property | Value |
|----------|-------|
| Rule ID | `EK00022` |
| Category | Titles and headings |
| Default severity | <Badge text="Warning" variant="caution" /> |
| Enabled by default | No |

## Ignore this rule

To keep a period in one heading, add an inline comment with a reason:

```markdown
<!-- ekline-ignore-next-line EK00022 -- heading quotes a full sentence -->
## Read the notice "Back up your data first."
```

To disable the rule across your project, add it to the `ignore` list in your [configuration file](/reviewer/configuration/ignoring-rules/#ignore).

## Related rules

- [EK00023](/reviewer/rules/ek00023/) — Avoid end punctuation in headings
- [EK00037](/reviewer/rules/ek00037/) — Use sentence-style capitalization in headings