1. Colon Usage

2. Colon Usage Rule #1 Colons usually mean “pay attention to what follows.” Use a colon before a list of items, especially after expressions such as the following and as follows. – The only tools allowed in the testing area are as follows: pencils, compasses, rulers, and protractors. However! – Do not use a colon after a verb Elsa’s favorite things are: building snowmen, making ice palaces, and running away from her problems. – Do not use a colon after a preposition Anna wants to: stuff chocolate in her face, ride her bike, and marry a complete stranger.

3. Colon Usage Rule #2 Use a colon before a long, formal statement or quotation – Sweet Brown began her interview about the apartment fire with these now-famous words: Well, I woke up to go get me a cold pop, and I thought somebody was barbecuing. I said, "Oh, lord Jesus it's a fire!“ Then I ran out. I didn't grab no shoes or nothing! Jesus! I ran for my life!

4. Colon Usage Rule #3 Use a colon before a statement that explains or clarifies a preceding statement. – Mrs. Leighton has written 100 passes today: Students need hall passes to go anywhere now.

5. Colon Usage Rule #4 Use a colon in certain conventional situations. – Use a colon between the hour and the minute. Because a cow fell on my car, I was late for the 2:40 showing of Magic Mike XXL. – Use a colon between chapter and verse in Biblical references. My oldest niece read 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 at my wedding. – Use a colon between a title and a subtitle. Nansemond River High School: Home of the Warriors – Use a colon after the salutation of a business letter. Dear Mr. Green: To whom it may concern: