Meet the Colon

What it does, When to use it, And why not to

be afraid!

What is a Colon?

Punctuation mark that introduces a phrase, explanation, example, or list

Separates two clauses in a sentence when the second clause further explains the first

Colon Use #1

Use a colon when introducing parts of a list. Examples:

I have three favorite types of dogs: German shepherds, golden retrievers, and corgis.

When you come to camp, you should have the following supplies: a sleeping bag, a tooth brush, and a change of clothes.

Colon Use #1

However, do not use a colon before a list if that list is grammatically essential to the wording of the sentence. Examples:

My three favorite dogs breeds are German shepherds, golden retrievers, and corgis.

When you come to camp, you should bring a sleeping bag, a tooth brush, and a change of clothes.

Colon Use #2

Use a colon after an independent clause when it is followed by another phrase that is directly related to the independent clause. The second phrase could be an elaboration, an

explanation, or a set of directions.

Or, use a colon to separate two independent clauses when the clauses are of unequal weight.

Colon Use#2

Example: I know the perfect job for my sister: a veterinarian. After work, I will be picking my kids up from school:

they go to Clays Mill Elementary. When I get home today, I have a lot of laundry to do:

socks and sweatshirts are waiting for me.

Caution: This rule can be easily confused with semicolons.

Colon Use #2

Colon

Joins two independent clauses of unequal weight

Used after an independent clause when the 2nd clause of the sentence elaborates on the independent clause

EX: I don’t understand why everyone shops at that store: everything there is so expensive.

Semicolon

Joins two independent clauses of equal weight

EX: Friends was my favorite t.v. show of the 90s; it is actually my favorite show of all time.

Colon Use #3

Use a colon to set off a citation that is not involved in the structure of the main sentence.

Example: In The Hunger Games, Katniss gets in trouble for not

being more likable: “You’ve got about as much charm as a dead slug.”

After every holiday season, my dad always gets in trouble with his doctor: “Tom, you’ve gained 14 pounds since I saw you last!”

Colon Use #4

Use a colon when punctuating time or Biblical verses.

Example: 6:10 John 9:15

Practice #1

Does this sentence need a colon? If so, where?

When I go to Kroger later today, I need to pick up milk, eggs, Chex Mix, and hamburger buns.

Answer: No. Rule #1

Practice #2

Is the colon in this sentence used correctly? Why or why not?

Never forget your teacher’s main point: Grammar is important!

Answer: Yes. Rule #2. The second phrase further illustrates the first.