How to use a Colon and a Semicolon


How to use a colon and a semicolon

Both a colon and a semicolon must follow a complete sentence.

When using a semicolon, the second part also has to be a complete sentence.

However, with a colon, as long as the first part is a sentence, anything can follow.




Semicolon

As mentioned in the previous posting, a semicolon is used like a period. It does not add anything nor change the meaning of a sentence. The only difference is the capitalization of the second sentence.


     Many movies are entertaining. The movies from Marvel are especially entertaining.

     Many movies are entertaining; the movies from Marvel are especially entertaining.


Remember, in the SAT and the ACT,  PERIOD = SEMICOLON



*One common mistake students make is using "semicolon + FANBOYS." 

Remember, we do not use a semicolon with FANBOYS (with the exception of super-comma which will be discussed later).


     I saw Jane; and I knew at that moment. (incorrect)

     I saw Jane, and I knew at that moment. (correct)

     or

     I saw Jane and knew at that moment.          (correct / parallelism)

     I saw Jane. I knew at that moment.          (correct)



Colon

A colon can be used in two ways:

1. Before an elaboration/ add more information or give detail

2. Before a list

List

     I covered many of the fundamentals in our class: grammar, punctuation, and vocabulary.

     Sir Alex Ferguson discovered many superstars: David Beckham, Paul Scholes, and Chrstiano Ronaldo.


*Notice how it is possible to use incomplete sentence after a colon as long as the first part of the information before the colon is a complete sentence.


Elaboration

     I don't like Steve: he is selfish.

     I need more time: I didn't finish my homework.



An important tip to remember:

a colon cannot be used with words like “such as” or “including” because of REDUNDANCY.


     I have three things: including A, B, and C.         (incorrect)





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