This document discusses the proper uses of colons and semicolons in writing. Colons can be used to introduce a list, quotation, or clause that illustrates the preceding statement. Semicolons separate two independent clauses that are closely related. They can also be used between items in a list that contain internal punctuation. The document provides examples of correct and incorrect usage of colons and semicolons in different contexts and notes that semicolons are not commonly used in journalistic writing according to the AP Stylebook.

1. Colon vs Semicolon
Jessica Martinez
Dr. Denise Richter
COMM 2305-001
Tuesday, April 05, 2016

2. What do they mean?
Colon ( : )
A punctuation mark indicating.
 that a writer is introducing a
quotation or a list of items.
 that a writer is separating two
clauses of which the second
expands or illustrates the first.
Semicolon ( ; )
 a punctuation mark indicating a
pause, typically between two main
clauses, that is more pronounced
than that indicated by a comma.

3. How to use a colon:
 Use a colon to introduce a series of items. Do not capitalize the first item after
the colon unless it's a proper noun.
 Examples:
 I only need three things from the grocery store: eggs, milk, and potatoes.
 All your soccer gear is in the trunk of the car: cleats, shin guards.
 Avoid using a colon before a list when it directly follows a verb or preposition that
would ordinarily need no punctuation in that sentence.
 Examples:
 Not recommended: I want: butter, sugar, and flour.
Recommended: I want butter, sugar, and flour.
OR
Here is what I want: butter, sugar, and flour.
 Not recommended: I've seen the greats, including: Barrymore, Guinness, and Streep.
Recommended: I've seen the greats, including Barrymore, Guinness, and Streep.

4. Colon continued…
 When listing items one by one, one per line, following a colon, capitalization and
ending punctuation are optional when using single words or phrases preceded by
letters, numbers, or bullet points.
 Examples:
I want an assistant who can do the following:
1. input data.
2. write reports.
3. complete tax forms.
 The following are requested:
A. Wool sweaters for possible cold weather.
B. Wet suits for snorkeling.
C. Introductions to the local dignitaries.

5. How to use a semicolon:
 Use a semicolon between two sentences that are closely related in theme.
 Used incorrectly: Jane drove to Phoenix to visit her parents; her parents’ dog had
to go to the vet.
 Used correctly: Tom earned his bachelor’s degree last summer; his sister earned
hers in the fall.
 Use a semicolon before conjunctive adverbs and transitional phrases that join two
sentences.
 Cindy has published several novels; in addition, she has published a volume of poetry.
 Angela fell and injured her leg last month; nevertheless, she was able to compete in the
race today.

6. Semicolon continued…
 Use a semicolon between items that contain internal punctuation
 Incorrect example: For her young son’s birthday, Jenny purchased a chocolate cake
with chocolate frosting, sprinkles, and candy topping, a pair of shoes with white
stripes, laces, and light-up heels, and a new racetrack complete with cars, people
figurines, and miniature buildings.
 Correct example: For her young son’s birthday, Jenny purchased a chocolate cake
with chocolate frosting, sprinkles, and candy topping; a pair of shoes with white
stripes, laces, and light-up heels; and a new racetrack complete with cars, people
figurines, and miniature buildings.

7. Semicolon according to AP Style
Handbook
 Not common in journalism, most will replace with a comma or period.
 Right, but not common in journalism: The Padres are weak this year; they have the
worst record in the league.
 Better: The Padres are weak this year – they have the worst record in the league.
 Better: The Padres are weak this year. They have the worst record in the league.
 Using semicolons in a headline.
 5 ½ - Foot Boa Caught in Toilet; Woman Relieved
 Semicolons can be used before a conjunctive adverb connecting two sentences.
 Right, but not common in journalism: Frome’s Lawyer contended he was mentally
incompetent; however, the jury decided the evidence was not so clear.
 Better: Frome’s lawyer contended he was mentally incompetent. The jury, however,
decided the evidence was not so clear.