semicolons and colons

Front

What is a semicolon?

Back

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

Front

What is a colon?

Back

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

Front

When should you use a semicolon?

Back

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

Front

When should you use a colon?

Back

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

Front

Correct the sentence: 'I have apples oranges and bananas.'

Back

I have apples, oranges, and bananas.

Front

Correct the sentence: 'I have three pets: a dog a cat and a rabbit.'

Back

I have three pets: a dog, a cat, and a rabbit.

Front

Identify the error: 'I like to read; and write.'

Back

The semicolon is incorrectly used; it should be 'I like to read and write.'

Front

What is the function of a semicolon in a complex list?

Back

A semicolon can be used to separate items in a list when those items contain commas.

Front

Correct the sentence: 'She loves cooking; baking and gardening.'

Back

She loves cooking, baking, and gardening.

Front

What punctuation should be used: 'He has one goal__ to succeed.'

Back

He has one goal: to succeed.