Colons in ACT English: Essential Tips and Examples

Why is it important to understand the correct usage of colons for the ACT English section?

• Because colons are rarely used in the test.

• Because colons are not important for the test.

• Because colons are increasingly appearing in the test.

• Because colons are the only punctuation mark tested.

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

• To separate two independent clauses.

• To indicate a pause.

• To introduce an example or a list.

• To end a sentence.

How can you visualize the function of a colon?

• As a question mark.

• As a finger pointing to something.

• As a comma.

• As a period.

Which of the following sentences correctly uses a colon?

• I need to buy; apples, bananas, and oranges.

• I need to buy the following: apples, bananas, and oranges.

• I need to buy apples, bananas, and oranges.

• I need to buy: apples, bananas, and oranges.

In the sentence 'I had only one task left as class president: making a graduation speech,' what does the colon do?

• It indicates a pause.

• It introduces the task left.

• It ends the sentence.

• It separates two independent clauses.

What should you check for before placing a colon in a sentence?

• A list of items.

• A complete sentence before the colon.

• A question mark.

• A conjunction.

Which of the following is a common mistake when using colons?

• Using a colon to introduce a list after an incomplete sentence.

• Using a colon to separate two independent clauses.

• Using a colon at the end of a sentence.

• Using a colon to indicate a pause.

In the sentence 'After school I like to: read a book, watch TV, and call a friend,' why is the colon incorrect?

• Because it indicates a pause.

• Because it separates two independent clauses.

• Because it introduces a list.

• Because the sentence before the colon is incomplete.

How can you avoid being tricked by incorrect colon usage in the ACT?

• By using colons only at the end of sentences.

• By never using colons.

• By ensuring there is a complete sentence before the colon.

• By always using a colon before a list.

Which of the following sentences correctly uses a colon?

• After school I like to read a book, watch TV: and call a friend.

• After school I like to do three things: read a book, watch TV, and call a friend.

• After school I like to: read a book, watch TV, and call a friend.

• After school I like to read a book: watch TV, and call a friend.