RULES
Proper or improper use
Where Does The Colon Go
Where Does The Colon Go 2
Colon Rule Explanation
100
What rule is being shown in this sentence? Dear Mr. Smith:
Use a colon rather than a comma to follow the salutation in a letter.
100

Is the following sentence correct? Dear: Ms. Holland

Incorrect- Dear Ms. Holland:

100
Where does the colon go in this sentence? There are two choices at this time run away or fight.
There are two choices at this time: run away or fight.
100
Where does the colon go in this sentence? Here are the three states that begin with M Michigan, Mississippi, and Maine
Here are the three states that begin with M: Michigan, Mississippi, and Maine
100

Where does a colon go in a Bible verse reference?

In between the chapter and verse.

200

What rule is being shown in this sentence? I give the Bengals a 3:1 odds of winning the super bowl this season.

#7: To show ratios

200

You will need the following salt: butter, and eggs

Improper- You will need the following: salt, butter, and eggs

200
Where does the colon go in this sentence? He wanted to see three cities in Italy Rome, Florence, and Venice.
He wanted to see three cities in Italy: Rome, Florence, and Venice.
200
Where does the colon go in this sentence? This house has everything I need two bedrooms, a backyard, and a garage.
This house has everything I need: two bedrooms, a backyard, and a garage.
200

Where should a colon go in a ratio?

In between the two numbers of the ratio.

300
What rule is being shown in this sentence? The author of Touched, Jane Struas, wrote in the first chapter: Georgia went back to her bed and...
A colon may be used to introduce a long quotation.
300
Is the following sentence correct? I want: butter, sugar, and flour.
Incorrect- I want the following: butter, sugar, and flour.
300

Where does the colon go in this sentence? I want the following hats, scarves, and gloves.


I want the following: hats, scarves, and gloves.

300
Where does the colon go in this sentence? The role of the colon is simple to introduce.
The role of the colon is simple: to introduce.
300

When should you use a colon versus a comma with a salutation?

Use a colon after a salutation for a business letter or memo. Otherwise use a comma.

400

What rule is being shown in this sentence? You will need the following items: sleeping bags, pillows, pajamas and teddy bear

#1 Use a colon before a list that is introduced by a complete sentence.

400

Is the following correct? The natural consequence followed; he was grounded for a month.

Incorrect- The natural consequence followed: he was grounded for a month. 

400
Where does the colon go in this sentence? Never forget this point think before you speak.
Never forget this point: think before you speak
400
Where does the colon go in this sentence? We all knew who would be first in the race speedy Steve
We all knew who would be first in the race: speedy Steve
400

When should you use a colon versus a semicolon between two independent clauses?

Use a colon when the second independent clause is the effect or logical consequence of the first. Otherwise use a semicolon (or period) to separate two independent clauses.

500

What rule is being shown in this sentence? He worked hard and got what he wanted: he really earned that promotion.

#2 To introduce the effect or logical consequence of an action.

500
Is the following sentence correct? Rules for riding the roller coaster: 1. Keep hands and feet inside the cart 2. Stay seated
Correct
500

Where does the colon go in this sentence? Remember two can play at that game.

Remember: two can play at that game.

500
Where does the colon go in this sentence? Don't bother coming over anymore I'm not feeling well enough to meet up.
Don't bother coming over anymore: I'm not feeling well enough to meet up.
500

When should you use a colon versus a comma with a quotation?

Use a colon with a quotation when the introductory phrase is a complete sentence. Use a comma when the introductory phrase is not a complete sentence.

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