Module 13 Instructor Guidance

Use a semicolon to combine two closely related independent clauses. Relying on a period to separate the related clauses into two shorter sentences could lead to choppy writing. Using a comma would create an awkward run-on sentence.

• Correct: Be sure to wear clean, well-pressed clothes to the interview; appearances are important.
• Choppy: Be sure to wear clean, well-pressed clothes to the interview. Appearances are important.
• Incorrect: Be sure to wear clean, well-pressed clothes to the interview, appearances are important.

In this case, writing the independent clauses as two sentences separated by a period is correct. However, using a semicolon to combine the clauses can make your writing more interesting by creating a variety of sentence lengths and structures while preserving the flow of ideas.

Colons, on the other hand, are generally taught with semicolons but have completely different grammatical functions.  The two most common are explained below.

1. Colons to Introduce Examples or Explanations

Use a colon to introduce an example or to further explain an idea presented in the first part of a sentence. The first part of the sentence must always be an independent clause; that is, it must stand alone as a complete thought with a subject and verb. Do not use a colon after phrases like such as or for example.

• Correct: Our company offers many publishing services: writing, editing, and reviewing.
• Incorrect: Our company offers many publishing services, such as: writing, editing, and reviewing.

   2. Colons to Introduce a List

Use a colon to introduce a list of items. Introduce the list with an independent clause.

• The team will tour three states: New York, Pennsylvania, and Maryland.
• I have to take four classes this semester: Composition, Statistics, Ethics, and Italian.

Adapted from: Writing for Success

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