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Colon (:) and Semi-colon (;)

 COLON (:)


  1. Use a colon to introduce a series of items.
    For example, You may be required to bring many things: sleeping bags, pans and warm clothing.
  2. Avoid using a colon before a list when it directly follows a verb or preposition.
    For example,
    Incorrect: I want: butter, milk and sugar.
    Correct: I want the following: butter, milk and sugar.
    Correct: I want butter, milk and sugar.
  3. A colon instead of a semicolon may be used between independent clauses when the second sentence explains, illustrates, paraphrases or expands on the first sentence.
    For example, The whole thing became terribly clear: they had no means to escape. 

SEMICOLON (;)


  1. Avoid the common mistake of using a semicolon to replace a colon.
    For example, One man went to mow; the others went to sow. 
  2. A semicolon can replace a period (.) if the writer wishes to narrow the gap between two closely linked sentences.
  3. Use a semicolon before such words and terms as namely, however, therefore, that is, i.e., for example, e.g., for instance, etc. 
  4. Use a semicolon to separate units of a series when one or more of the units contain commas.
    For example, The equipment included a small motor, which was fitted with a transformer; two yards of wire; and a switch.
  5. A semicolon may be used between independent clauses joined by a connector, such as FANBOYS (for, and, not, but, or, yet, so), when one or more commas appear in the first clause.
    For example, When I finish here, and I will soon, I will be glad to help you; and that is a promise I will keep. 
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