Should I use a semicolon or a period?

Should I use a semicolon or a period?

Semicolons are used to connect two independent clauses (i.e., full sentences), whether or not a conjunction is used. Although a period could easily be used—as each sentence can stand on its own—a semicolon can be used to indicate a closer connection between the two sentences.

How do you list after a colon?

When listing items one by one, one per line, following a colon, capitalization and ending punctuation are optional when using single words or phrases preceded by letters, numbers, or bullet points. If each point is a complete sentence, capitalize the first word and end the sentence with appropriate ending punctuation.

How do you punctuate lists within a list?

Items in lists are usually separated with commas. However, if the list items themselves contain commas, then semicolons can be used as separators to outrank those commas.

What does a semicolon mean in a list?

A semicolon is most commonly used to link (in a single sentence) two independent clauses that are closely related in thought. When a semicolon is used to join two or more ideas (parts) in a sentence, those ideas are then given equal position or rank.

How do you list items in APA format?

Lists. Lists, such as numbered lists and bulleted lists, may be used in APA Style. Each item on the list is punctuated at the end by a comma, semicolon, or period, depending on the grammatical structure of the list. Numbers are followed by periods and are not in parentheses.

Do you use a colon or semicolon before a list?

Something is clearly missing. This means that no colon is needed and it would be incorrect to use one before the list. So if you have a list, remember you only use a colon before it if the list follows a clause that could be used on its own.

What is the correct way to use a colon?

Common uses of colons

1. To announce, introduce, or direct attention to a list, a noun or noun phrase, a quotation, or an example/explanation. You can use a colon to draw attention to many things in your writing.
2. To join sentences.
3. To express time, in titles, and as part of other writing conventions.

Can you use a colon after one word?

The colon can be used to emphasize a phrase or single word at the end of a sentence. Conclusion: This practice can be followed when that single word is at either end of the sentence.

Which colon is used for a list?

Use a colon to introduce an item or list, if the list comes after a complete sentence or independent clause. For example: There are three things every dog needs: food, water and healthcare.

Can a semicolon replace a period?

Use a semicolon to replace a period between related sentences when the second sentence starts with either a conjunctive adverb or a transitional expression, such as for example, for instance, that is, besides, accordingly, furthermore, otherwise, however, thus, therefore.