When to use 'for example', 'eg' and 'ie'

Dear Dr English,

Please explain in which situation we use "for example", "eg" and "ie"

Quite often during a conversation or a written text, there are situations where we want to introduce and emphasise something that supports or illustrates the point you are making; we use "for example" for this purpose.

Your essay is good but still needs a few adjustments; for example, the introduction should be straight to the point, and more reasons should be added to your argument.

This file contains all-important information you will need during the trip; for example, a schedule of the programme, names and telephone numbers of our clients and presentation CDs.

This works the same as "eg", which is an abbreviation of the Latin "exempli gratia". That also means "for example" or "for instance"; it is used to introduce an example or list of examples to illustrate what is being discussed. The list of examples following "eg" should not be long, because it is not a finite list of things and need not end with "etc" or "et cetera". This abbreviation should be followed by a comma.

One source I used in my researching this says "eg" must be put between parentheses, but others do not seem to mind it. I myself find "eg" used both with and without parentheses in many materials.

The buffet was well prepared and provided various kinds of food; eg, tomato soup, roast leg of lamb, grilled salmon and green salad.

But "ie", which is an abbreviation of the Latin "id est", is different; it means "that is" or "in other words". It is used to give further clarification or more information of the point one has just mentioned.

I like reading classic adventure books; ie, something like The Robinson Family, Robinson Crusoe and She.

She looked nervous and inexperienced; ie, someone who has never entered any contest before.

By Dr English

drenglish_7@hotmail.com