How to use a colon

A colon (:) introduces something that explains, lists or expands on what came before. Think of it as a drumroll.

1. Before a list

“You need three things: a pen, some paper and an idea.” The words before the colon must be a complete sentence.

2. Before an explanation

“She had one reason for leaving early: she could not stand another minute of the party.” The second part explains the first.

3. For dramatic effect

“There was only one person who could have taken it: my brother.” The colon makes the reader pause before the reveal.

The common mistake

“You need: a pen, paper and an idea.” This is wrong because “You need” is not a complete sentence. Simply remove the colon.

Colon or semicolon?

A semicolon joins two equal, related sentences. A colon introduces something that explains or completes the first part.

Try it: write one sentence that uses a colon for a list, one for an explanation, and one for a dramatic reveal.