Semicolons separate items in a list, while colons precede and introduce a list. He took three things with him on the trek, his lunch, his binoculars, and his trusty walking stick.
Do you use a semicolon for a list?
Use a semicolon between items in a list or series if any of the items contain commas. There are basically two ways to write: with a pen or pencil, which are cheap and easily available, or with a computer and printer, which are more expensive but quick and neat.
How to use colon and semicolon in a list?
Colons (:) are used in sentences to indicate that something follows, e.g. a quote, example, or list. Semicolons () are used to join two independent clauses or two complete thoughts that could form complete sentences.
How do I use a semicolon in a list?
It is common to use commas to separate items in a list. However, if the list items themselves contain commas, you can override those commas by using semicolons to separate your list items.
What are examples of semicolons?
Examples of semicolons: Joan likes eggs, Jennifer doesn’t. The cat slept through the storm, the dog curled up under the bed. Semicolons are also used in a sentence when something stronger than a comma is needed.
How do I end a semicolon in a list?
If the list items are sentences or clauses that contain punctuation marks, place a semicolon at the end of each item. Put “and” (or, if logic requires it, “or”) after the second to last item in the list and a period after the last item. Elements are not capitalized (except proper names).
How do you start a colon with a list?
Rule 1: Use colons after a complete sentence to introduce a list of items when introductory words such as know or don’t apply or aren’t appropriate. Examples: You may need to bring many things: sleeping bags, pots and warm clothes.
Do you use a semicolon before and in a list?
The general rule is to use semicolons the way you would use commas with ordinary list items: … The so-called Oxford comma complicates matters. Many people put a comma before the last item in a list, and many people don’t, it ultimately comes down to taste and whether the style guide you’re working with requires it. 07