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Explaining
Colons
The colon
(:) is an important punctuation mark in that it signals to
your readers that an explanation follows. Unfortunately, many
readers tend to overuse it.
If you
are staying on the same line, you must have a complete sentence
before you use a colon.
Correct
Our client list includes many companies from the automotive
sector: GM, Chrysler, Ford and Nissan. (The words before the
colon form a complete sentence.)
Incorrect
Our client list includes: GM, Chrysler, Ford and Nissan.
(The words before the colon do not form a
complete sentence.)
Correct
Our client list includes GM, Chrysler, Ford and Nissan.
The colon is also used when introducing a list.
Correct
The following information is enclosed:
• A handbook including an overview of the association
• A calendar of the year’s events
• A members’ directory
• Your membership number
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