# Require ending punctuation in list items (EK00041)

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

Consistent ending punctuation makes list items read as complete statements rather than fragments. EkLine flags a list item that doesn't end with a period, question mark, or exclamation point (rule EK00041).

## Should list items end with punctuation?

When some list items end with punctuation and others don't, the list looks inconsistent and unfinished. Ending each item the same way signals that every entry is a full statement. This matters most for lists of complete sentences, where a missing period stands out.

## What EkLine flags

EK00041 flags a list item that ends without a period, question mark, or exclamation point.

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

## How to fix

Add a period to each list item that states a complete sentence. Apply the same ending punctuation across every item in the list.

<Aside type="note">
Short, label-style list items — single words or brief phrases — often read better without ending punctuation. Keep the style consistent within a list and ignore the rule where a fragment style is intentional.
</Aside>

## FAQ

### Should every list item end with a period?

End full-sentence list items with the same punctuation across the list. Short, label-style items — single words or brief phrases — often read better without it.

### What punctuation can close a list item?

A period, question mark, or exclamation point. Apply the same ending mark to every item so the list looks consistent.

## Rule details

| Property | Value |
|----------|-------|
| Rule ID | `EK00041` |
| Category | Sentences and phrases |
| Default severity | <Badge text="Error" variant="danger" /> |
| Enabled by default | No |

## Ignore this rule

To keep an unpunctuated list item on one line, add an inline comment with a reason:

```markdown
<!-- ekline-ignore-next-line EK00041 -- label-style list, no periods -->
- Install the CLI
```

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

## Related rules

- [EK00017](/reviewer/rules/plurals-in-parentheses/) — Avoid plurals in parentheses
- [EK00023](/reviewer/rules/heading-punctuation/) — Avoid end punctuation in headings