Colons in sentences and independent clauses

Which punctuation mark is most often used right after a complete sentence to introduce a list of things?

• a semicolon (;)

• a comma (,)

• a colon (:)

• a period (.)

Answer explanation

A colon is used to introduce a list after an independent clause (a complete sentence). A semicolon connects related independent clauses, a comma separates items within a list, and a period ends a sentence.

A colon can be used to set up a big reveal or an explanation. In which sentence is the colon doing this job?

• I like playing video games, soccer, and basketball.

• My mom had one rule for the sleepover: No staying up past midnight.

• My friend asked; "Are you coming to the party?"

• We went to the store, but it was closed.

Answer explanation

The colon in this sentence correctly introduces an explanation of the "one rule." The other sentences use commas for a list, incorrect punctuation for a quote, or a comma before a conjunction.

True or False: It is grammatically correct to put a colon right after a verb like "are" or "include."

• True

• False

Answer explanation

A colon should not directly follow a verb or a preposition. It must come after a complete sentence, also known as an independent clause.

Which sentence correctly uses a colon because a complete sentence comes before it?

• For the party, I need to buy: balloons, cake, and ice cream.

• The main characters are: a brave knight, a clever princess, and a grumpy dragon.

• My weekend plans are simple: I'm going to sleep in and watch movies.

• My favorite animals include: dogs, cats, and hamsters.

Answer explanation

Only sentence C has a complete thought ("My weekend plans are simple") before the colon. The other sentences incorrectly place the colon after a preposition ("to buy:") or a verb ("are:", "include:").

True or False: You can use a colon to connect two complete sentences if the second sentence explains or expands on the first one.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

This is a key use of the colon. It creates a strong connection where the second independent clause clarifies the first, like in "I know what we have to do: We need to finish our project before the deadline."

Which sentence incorrectly uses a colon?

• The secret to a good sandwich is: fresh bread, quality meat, and a tasty sauce.

• I have a new favorite hobby: learning to play the guitar.

• My dad gave me some great advice: "Always try your best."

• You'll need to pack three items for the trip: a toothbrush, pajamas, and a change of clothes.

Answer explanation

This sentence is incorrect because the colon comes directly after the verb "is." A colon should not separate a verb from its objects. The other sentences correctly use a colon after a complete thought.

When using a colon, when should you capitalize the word that comes right after it?

• Always

• Never

• Only when it's a proper noun like a person's name

• When it begins a complete sentence or is a proper noun

Answer explanation

The standard rule is to capitalize the first word after a colon if it starts a full sentence (an independent clause) or if it's a proper noun. Otherwise, it remains lowercase.

Which sentence shows the correct way to fix this error? "I want to visit: Paris, London, and Rome."

• I want to visit; Paris, London, and Rome.

• I want to visit Paris, London, and Rome.

• I want: to visit Paris, London, and Rome.

• I want to visit. Paris, London, and Rome.

Answer explanation

The original sentence incorrectly places a colon after the verb "visit." The correct way to write the sentence is to remove the colon entirely, as the list of cities directly follows the verb.

Complete the sentence: The coach left a note with a clear message ___ "Be at the gym by 7:00 a.m. sharp."

• ,

• :

• ;

• no punctuation

Answer explanation

A colon should be used to introduce a formal quotation that explains or illustrates the complete sentence that comes before it. The phrase "a clear message" is explained by the quote.

In which sentence would a colon be the BEST choice to add emphasis to an explanation?

• I need to go to the library, the post office, and the bank today.

• He finally admitted the truth he had eaten the last cookie.

• My sister is good at sports; she plays soccer and volleyball.

• We can go to the park, or we can go to the movies.

Answer explanation

Sentence B is the best place for a colon (He finally admitted the truth: he had eaten the last cookie). The second part dramatically explains the first, which is a perfect job for a colon to provide emphasis.