Colons,Semi-colons, Commas

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.

Front

What is a comma?

Back

A comma (,) is a punctuation mark used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence or to separate items in a list.

Front

When should you use a colon?

Back

Use a colon to introduce 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

When should you use a comma?

Back

Use a comma to separate items in a list, before conjunctions in compound sentences, or after introductory elements.

Front

Example of a sentence using a colon.

Back

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

Front

Example of a sentence using a semicolon.

Back

I wanted to go for a walk; it was raining outside.

Front

Example of a sentence using a comma.

Back

For breakfast, I had eggs, toast, and coffee.

Front

What is the rule for using a colon before a list?

Back

A colon should be used before a list only if the preceding clause is a complete sentence.