How to use a colon
Many people stay far away from using commas in their essay writing, because they’re not sure what on earth to do with them. Actually, colon use is similar to the use of the semi-colon. The main use of a colon it is a separator. It works to separate two parts of a sentence – the general statement from one or more statements or items that give specific information, illustrations or explanations. Colons are usually used in academic writing when introducing a long quote (over 2 lines):
This is because you must introduce your source before you write the quote, as quotes that stand-alone can become quite confusing.
If I needed to provide someone with three reasons why I didn’t want to go to the beach this weekend I would say: I haven’t the time, it’s cold outside, and you bore me.
But don’t worry the items or items after the colon do not need to be complete sentences:
They knew precisely what they were facing: almost certain death.
Two members of the committee have already been named: Mrs Atkinson and Mr Peters.
This is because you must introduce your source before you write the quote, as quotes that stand-alone can become quite confusing.
If I needed to provide someone with three reasons why I didn’t want to go to the beach this weekend I would say: I haven’t the time, it’s cold outside, and you bore me.
But don’t worry the items or items after the colon do not need to be complete sentences:
They knew precisely what they were facing: almost certain death.
Two members of the committee have already been named: Mrs Atkinson and Mr Peters.