Colons

1. Use a colon before a list of items.

All volunteers will need the following: a notebook, a pen, and a comfortable pair of walking shoes.

There are four methods of catching fish: hooking, netting, spearing, and trapping.

2. Never use a colon directly after a verb.

Incorrect: My three favorite subjects are: math, science, and Spanish.

Correct: My three favorite subjects are math, science, and Spanish.

3. Never use a colon after a preposition.

Incorrect: I have worked at many restaurants, such as: Burger King, Chang An’s, and Legal Seafood.

Correct: I have worked at many restaurants, such as Burger King, Chang An’s, and Legal Seafood.

Semicolons & Colons: Review (Answers)

Add semicolons, colons, and commas to the following sentences as needed.

1. Cargo planes carry almost anything white mice toupees and even small private planes.

2. The movie however was much too long.

3. I didn’t win the marathon nevertheless running in it was a good experience.

4. While you’re at the drugstore please buy aspirin toothpaste and cotton balls.

5. Termites are not related to ants they are part of the cockroach family.

6. The forecast predicted rain however the sun shone all day.

7. For the hike you should bring the following a snack a canteen of water and suntan lotion.

8. The ocean floor is divided into three main regions continental shelf slope and abyss.

9. I’ve been very busy taking care of two rabbits one cat three dogs and a turtle.

10. I have relatives in Kentucky Utah and Arizona.