Explanation:

Hyphen (-)
- A hyphen is used to join words together, separate syllables of a single word, or connect numbers in a range.
- It can also be used to show a connection between two words or concepts.

Comma (,)
- A comma is used to separate items in a list, clarify meaning, or indicate a pause in a sentence.
- It is also used before conjunctions like "and," "but," or "or" when joining independent clauses.

Period (.)
- A period is used to mark the end of a sentence or abbreviation.
- It is also used in decimal numbers or to separate whole numbers from fractions.

Question mark (?)
- A question mark is used at the end of a sentence to indicate a direct question.
- It is used to show that the sentence is asking for information or seeking clarification.

Therefore, out of the given options, the correct punctuation mark that is used to ask a direct question is the question mark (?). It is essential in forming interrogative sentences and seeking answers.