COLON
A colon, which is usually preceded by an independent clause, introduces a restatement, an amplification, an explanation, or a list or series.
Use a colon when there is no connective or one like "the following" or "as follows:"
He has a few things to do: work, loaf, sleep, read, and eat.
Do not use a colon after a conjunction or a preposition, or to separate the verb from what follows.
1.
2.
Incorrect:
Correct:
Exception:
With quotations: A quotation of more than normal length (two sentences or more) is usually preceded by a colon. A shorter quotation is ordinarily preceded by a comma. However, a very short quotation may not need punctuation:
The dog cried "Yap!"
A quotation preceded by a verb that has a direct object requires a colon:
She murmured her reply: "Bring soft drinks next time."
A quotation that is not introduced by a verb of saying (comment, shout, murmur, say, etc.) is preceded by a colon:
He pointed: "Look at the moon!"
With capitalization: Capitalize a complete sentence that follows a colon or a statement or list that is long and involved, even if it is not a sentence:
Some riddles have always haunted men: Where did the moon come from? Of what is it made?
Slang includes such terms as: hassle, the pits, right on.
Slang includes such terms as hassle, the pits, right on.
The topic of tonight's lecture is: Will issue editors adopt the carefully revised Style Manual?