Rule: Use a comma between two complete, long clauses (two subject and verb pairs) when conjunctions such as and, or, but, for, nor connect them. precede the list.Įxample: I need four paint colors: blue, gray, green, and red. Rule: Use a colon to introduce a list when no introductory words like namely, for instance, i.e., e.g. For example, if each bullet or numbered point is a complete sentence, you might capitalize the first word and end each sentence with proper ending punctuation. If you have multiple sentences following the sentence with the colon and you bullet or otherwise itemize them, capitalization and punctuation are optional.
Whether to capitalize the first word after a colon depends on the stylebook or style guidelines you are following. Notice that the first word of the second sentence is not capitalized. Rule: A colon is used to introduce a second sentence that clarifies the first sentence.Įxample: We have set this restriction: do your homework before watching television. Rule: Also use the semicolon when you already have commas within a sentence for smaller separations, and you need the semicolon to show bigger separations.Įxample: We had a reunion with family from Salt Lake City, Utah Los Angeles, California and Albany, New York. Rule: Use the semicolon if you have two independent clauses connected without a conjunction.Įxample: I have painted the house I still need to sand the floors. This sentence has two verbs but only one subject, so it has only one clause. Rule: If you have only one clause (one subject and verb pair), you won’t usually need a comma in front of the conjunction.Įxample: I have painted the house but still need to sand the floors. Rule: If the clauses are both short, you may omit the comma. Rule: Use a comma between two long independent clauses when conjunctions such as and, or, but, for, nor connect them.Įxample: I have painted the entire house, but she is still working on sanding the floors. Punctuation within sentences can be tricky however, if you know just a few of the following rules, you will be well on your way to becoming a polished writer and proofreader. Using Commas, Semicolons, and Colons Within Sentences
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