Colons

Front

What is the primary use of a colon in a sentence?

Back

A colon is primarily used to introduce a list, a quote, an explanation, or to separate two independent clauses when the second clause explains or illustrates the first.

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2B

Front

How should a colon be used before a list?

Back

A colon should be placed before a list when the preceding clause is a complete sentence that introduces the list.

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2B

Front

Provide an example of a correct use of a colon in a sentence.

Back

Example: You will need the following items: a notebook, a pen, and a calculator.

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2B

Front

What punctuation mark is used to separate two independent clauses when the second clause explains the first?

Back

A colon (:) is used to separate two independent clauses when the second clause explains or elaborates on the first.

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2B

Front

What is the difference between a colon and a semicolon?

Back

A colon introduces or emphasizes information, while a semicolon connects two closely related independent clauses.

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2B

Front

When is it incorrect to use a colon?

Back

It is incorrect to use a colon if the preceding clause is not a complete sentence.

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2B

Front

What punctuation should follow a colon when introducing a list?

Back

No punctuation is needed after a colon when introducing a list, except for the first item in the list.

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2B

Front

How can colons be used in formal writing?

Back

Colons can be used in formal writing to introduce lists, quotes, or explanations, and to separate independent clauses.

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2B

Front

What is an example of a sentence that incorrectly uses a colon?

Back

Incorrect: I need: paper, pencils, and a ruler. (Correct: I need the following: paper, pencils, and a ruler.)

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2B

Front

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

Back

A colon is used before a quote when the preceding clause is a complete sentence that sets up the quote.

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2B