The Online Scholar Institute

What is a colon?

A colon (:) is used to introduce something: a list, an explanation, a quote, or an example. It’s like a little drumroll that says, “Here it comes!”

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🔑 When do you use a colon?

✅ To introduce a list or a series.
✅ To introduce an explanation, definition, or elaboration.
✅ To introduce a quotation (less common, but possible).

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✏️ Example:

🔸 Introducing a list:

She packed everything she needed for the trip: clothes, toiletries, and snacks.

Here, the colon comes after a complete sentence and introduces the list.

🔸 Introducing an explanation or elaboration:

He had only one hobby: collecting rare coins.

The part after the colon explains what the hobby is.

🔸 Introducing a quote (sometimes in formal writing):

The sign read: “No trespassing.

Nice! Now go ahead and use your colon in your CXC prep/ CSEC prep.

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