There are three types of dashes or lines used in writing. Each differs in usage yet serves a particular purpose in sentence structure that cannot be ignored.
Identification
The hyphen and en dash are relatively the same size and are located to the right of the zero on most standard U.S. keyboard layouts. The em dash is a longer dash, about the length of two en dashes.
Function
The hyphen is used to combine two compound words together or to connect non-continuing numbers such as telephone numbers.
The en dash is used to connect continuing numbers, dates, times, etc.
The em dash is used to show a sudden break in thought that disrupts the sentence structure.
History
The en dash, or "n" dash, is called so because it was traditionally the length of an "n" while the em dash, or "m" dash, was the length of an "m" on a typewriter.
Considerations
Many grammarians follow the belief that the em dash is used too freely and that instead the semi-colon should be more carefully considered when writing.
Fun Fact
Most word processors allow the creation of the em dash by putting two en dashes together. If your word processor doesn't support this, then you will have to add the character under a special characters dialog.
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Writer Bio
Chad Anderson began writing professionally in 2009. He primarily contributes articles on technology and outdoor topics for various websites. His areas of interest include Linux and open-source software along with cycling and other outdoor sports. Anderson holds a Bachelor of Arts in English literature from the University of Nevada in Reno.