Colons and Semicolons

Front

What is a colon?

Back

A colon (:) is a punctuation mark used to introduce a list, a quote, or an explanation.

Front

What is a semicolon?

Back

A semicolon (;) is a punctuation mark used to connect closely related independent clauses or to separate items in a complex list.

Front

When should you use a colon?

Back

Use a colon before a list, a quote, or to emphasize a point.

Front

When should you use a semicolon?

Back

Use a semicolon to link two independent clauses that are closely related in thought.

Front

Correct the punctuation: I love science fiction books: The Arc of a Scythe series is a favorite.

Back

No, it should be 'I love science fiction books. The Arc of a Scythe series is a favorite.'

Front

Correct the punctuation: For this class, you will need the following items; a composition notebook, highlighters, bookmarks, and a pencil.

Back

No, it should be 'For this class, you will need the following items: a composition notebook, highlighters, bookmarks, and a pencil.'

Front

Fill in the blank with correct punctuation: I just filled my cat’s bowl with __ she’s still rolling around and meowing at me.

Back

food; (correct answer)

Front

Fill in the blank with correct punctuation: I showered and brushed my __ it’s time to go to work.

Back

teeth; (correct answer)

Front

What punctuation is needed in this sentence? I've never been to Florida, where my mom was born California, where my dad used to live or Canada, where my grandparents met.

Back

Semicolons are needed to separate the clauses.

Front

What is the difference between a colon and a semicolon?

Back

A colon introduces lists or explanations, while a semicolon connects related independent clauses.