A colon can be used in several ways. Examples of this are shown below. It is important to make sure that a colon is preceded by an independent clause (a sentence that is grammatically correct on its own) when used in the context of a sentence.

Examples

 

Using a colon to present a list

  • I have four favorite colors: green, blue, red, and purple.

Using a colon to provide more information

  • I’ll tell you what she’s doing: she’s eating our cake!

Using a colon to lead into a quotation

  • Liz Newman stated her thoughts clearly:
    • “I have never been so distraught in my life.  The actions of that man are far beyond my comprehension.  I hope they put him away for a long time.”
  • Colons are typically used before quotations that are more than seven words long.  Otherwise, a comma is appropriate.

Using a colon to show a subtitle

  • Deep Sea Diving: The Mystery Below

Using a colon in a professional introduction

  • Dear Dr. Pecard: