Colons and Semicolons

Colons A colon is the two dots above each other (:) Colons are used Prior to a list After a salutation To indicate time Between a title and subtitle To separate an independent clause from a quote For emphasis

Prior to a List A colon can be used to introduce a list. Example: We had all of the equipment for the game: baseballs, bats, and gloves.

After a Salutation Use a colon after the salutation of a business/formal letter. Example: Dear Mr. Smith:

To Indicate Time Use a colon between numbers that indicate hours, minutes, and seconds. Example: His time for running the course was 1:24:50.

Between a Title and Subtitle Use a colon to distinguish between a title and a subtitle. Example: The textbook is called Ideas Across Time: Classic and Contemporary Readings for Composition. It can also be used to distinguish between a chapter and verse in literature. Psalm 23:1

To Separate an Independent Clause from a Quote Use a colon to introduce a quote after an independent clause. Example: In the play, Rose gives Troy a message: “Times have changed from when you was young, Troy.” Notice that a verb is not used write before the quote.

For Emphasis Use a colon to emphasize a word, phrase, or clause that explains the main independent clause. Examples: There was only one thing left for me to do: finish my homework. Let us not forget this point: it is important to help others.

When NOT to Use Colons After a “being” verb After a preposition Am, are, were, was, be, etc. After a preposition By, in, etc. If a list starts with the following words or phrases Such as For example Including Namely

Semicolons A semicolon is the comma with a dot above it (;) Semicolons are used to Sort complex lists Link closely-related independent clauses Link complete clauses with a conjunctive adverb

Sort Complex Lists Place semicolons between items in a list if some of the items are groups that contain commas. Example: My family lives in Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Cincinnati, Ohio; and Detroit, Michigan.

Link Closely-Related Independent Clauses Use a semicolon to connect independent clauses. The independent clauses must be related. Example: It looks like it is going to rain; I better bring my umbrella.

Link Complete Clauses with a Conjunctive Adverb A semicolon is also used to connect independent clauses when a conjunctive adverb is used. The semicolon is placed before the conjunctive adverb. A comma is placed after the conjunctive adverb. Example: I was tired after practice; however, I still had homework to finish.

Conjunctive Adverbs Also Besides Consequently Finally Furthermore Hence However Indeed Instead Likewise Meanwhile Moreover Nevertheless Next Subsequently Then Therefore Thus

When NOT to Use Semicolons When two independent clauses are joined using a coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS) You would use a comma for this. When what follows the punctuation restates what comes before it You would use a colon for this.