Colons with Lists
The Rule:
Place a colon before the list if the words that introduce the list are a complete sentence or you use the words “following” or “as follows.”
Examples:
The required steps are as follows: read these examples, complete the practice exercise, and check your work.
- Since the list is introduced with the words “as follows,” a colon is appropriate before the list.
Items on my to-do list include publishing this blog, downloading the pictures I took to my computer, and cleaning the dishes.
- “Items on my to-do list include” is not a complete sentence and the sentence didn’t use the words “following” or “as follows,” so no colon.
I found all the ingredients I needed: chicken, cheese, stewed tomatoes, flour, bread crumbs, eggs, and seasonings.
- “I found all the ingredients I needed” is a complete sentence so a colon is appropriate before the list.
Practice:
- The three largest earthquakes occurred in San Francisco, Lima, and Tokyo.
- The following items needed to be emailed to me the manuscript, the signed contract, and the paid deposit.
- Many jobs interest me teaching, editing, public speaking, and tutoring.
- I found some fun surprises in my pocket money, a love note, and a granola bar.
- I enjoy several activities such as reading, writing, learning, acting, and computer programming.
Answers:
- The three largest earthquakes occurred in San Francisco, Lima, and Tokyo. (no colon since it isn’t a complete sentence before the list)
- The following items needed to be emailed to me: the manuscript, the signed contract, and the paid deposit.
- Many jobs interest me: teaching, editing, public speaking, and tutoring.
- I found some fun surprises in my pocket: money, a love note, and a granola bar.
- I enjoy several activities such as reading, writing, learning, acting, and computer programming. (no colon since it isn’t a complete sentence before the list)