Colon Usage

Colon Usage Rule #1

Colons usually mean “pay attention to what follows.”• Use a colon before a list of items, especially after

expressions such as the following and as follows.– The only tools allowed in the testing area are as follows: pencils,

compasses, rulers, and protractors.• However!

– Do not use a colon after a verb• Elsa’s favorite things are: building snowmen, making ice palaces, and

running away from her problems.

– Do not use a colon after a preposition• Anna wants to: stuff chocolate in her face, ride her bike, and marry a

complete stranger. DON’T DO THESE BAD THINGS! NO COLON NEEDED

Colon Usage Rule #2

• Use a colon before a long, formal statement or quotation– Sweet Brown began her interview about the

apartment fire with these now-famous words:Well, I woke up to go get me a cold pop, and I thought somebody was barbecuing. I said, "Oh, lord Jesus it's a fire!“ Then I ran out. I didn't grab no shoes or nothing! Jesus! I ran for my life!

Colon Usage Rule #3

• Use a colon before a statement that explains or clarifies a preceding statement.– Mrs. Leighton has written 100 passes today:

Students need hall passes to go anywhere now.

Colon Usage Rule #4

Use a colon in certain conventional situations.– Use a colon between the hour and the minute.

• Because a cow fell on my car, I was late for the 2:40 showing of Magic Mike XXL.

– Use a colon between chapter and verse in Biblical references.• My oldest niece read 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 at my wedding.

– Use a colon between a title and a subtitle.• Nansemond River High School: Home of the Warriors

– Use a colon after the salutation of a business letter.• Dear Mr. Green:• To whom it may concern: