Parentheses, Brackets, the Hyphen, and the Slash

The sole purpose of punctuation is to make the text clear. If a mark of punctuation does not clarify the text, it should be omitted. In your written correspondence, you should pay very close attention to the mechanics of your writing, not only to satisfy your boss but also to help promote your own career. Once it leaves the office, your work speaks for itself. You want it to be a source of pride for both your employer and you; you certainly don’t want it to be a source of humor for its recipients.