Colons

Overview

A colon (:) is a punctuation mark used to introduce, explain, or emphasize information. It often signals that something important is coming next.

Introducing a list

Use a colon to introduce a list when the sentence before it is a complete thought.

• Example: You will need the following for class: pencils, paper, and a notebook.

Introducing an explanation or detail

A colon can show that what follows explains or expands on the first part of the sentence.

• Example: He had one big goal: to win the championship.

Before a quotation

Colons can introduce a quotation, especially when the quotation is long or formally presented.

• Example: The teacher repeated her favorite advice: “Always try your best, no matter the outcome.”

In ratios and time

Colons are used in numbers to show ratios and in time to separate hours from minutes.

• Example: The recipe calls for a sugar-to-flour ratio of 2:1.

• Example: We have a meeting at 3:30 p.m.

In titles and subtitles

Colons can separate a title from its subtitle.

• Example: The Hunger Games: Catching Fire

Avoiding misuse

Don’t put a colon directly after a verb or preposition. The part before the colon should be a full sentence.

• Wrong: My favorite fruits are: apples, oranges, and bananas.

• Correct: I have three favorite fruits: apples, oranges, and bananas.

Summary

Colons introduce lists, explanations, and important details. They can also be used in time, ratios, and titles. Remember: the part before the colon must be a complete thought, and what follows should add emphasis or detail.