L ists and colons.
  • Use a colon to set off a list if the clause introducing the list can stand as a sentence by itself (e.g., We will study all five great lakes: Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie, and Superior).

  • Do not set off a list if the clause introducing the list cannot stand as a sentence by itself (e.g., The five great lakes are Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie, and Superior).
A collage of colons.
S alutations and colons.
  • Use a colon following the salutation or greeting in a business letter (e.g., Dear Mr. Wilson:).
L ists and semicolons.
  • Use semicolons for items that would be confusing if they were set apart by commas (e.g., We invited Mrs. Jones, Karen's mother; Mrs. Smith, Karen's aunt; and Mrs. Parker, Karen's teacher.).
T wo independent clauses and semicolons.
  • Use a semicolon with two independent clauses which are not connected with a conjunction (e.g., Think carefully before responding; your future may depend upon your answer.).

 

     

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