Punctuation marks are an integral part of every sentence. If you want to get good grades, your essays or other assignments should be written without mistakes. The point is, punctuation marks like colons or semicolons help you better structure your thoughts. However, many students face problems when they have to write an assignment. Fortunately, not everything is as complicated as it might seem at first glance. You need to know the rules so that you don't make any more mistakes. Then you will no longer have difficulties with any college assignments. Here's what you need to know.
Basic Rules for Semicolons and Colons
Semicolons
It can be difficult for beginners to navigate various aspects, so mistakes are inevitable in the first stages. However, you should be aware that such punctuation marks are relevant when combining two independent but related clauses. Here are three main rules for you:
- Let's say you have two independent clauses. If you see a similar structure or general idea, you can replace the period with a semicolon.
- If you have a list, then you can separate each unit with this punctuation mark.
- Use this punctuation mark instead of connecting words. But this action is allowed if you have two independent clauses. And don't forget that your sentence must have at least two commas.
As you can see, there is nothing difficult. You need to remember the basic aspects to avoid mistakes in the future. Just learn all three rules so that your professor has no complaints against you.
Colons
Many people mistakenly assume that it is used only for lists. This is a misconception. This is because the colon is also used before the explanation. Here are the main rules you should know about.
- You can introduce a list in a sentence using this punctuation mark. The main condition is that the first clause must be independent.
- You can split two text parts with this punctuation mark if the second part explains the first.
- Your paper may contain extended quotations. In this case, you can use this punctuation mark before quotations.
- The fourth rule is not entirely relevant for essays. However, you can add a colon after the greeting.
It’s simple. As you can see, the basic rules are pretty simple. You don't have to worry about making a mistake. Take 10 minutes to practice and start writing your essay.
How to Use a Semicolon and Colon: Useful Examples
As a rule, it is always easier for students to be guided by real-life examples. This is an effective solution to the problem with punctuation marks. Here are some examples to help you. Read each part carefully:
- I have to travel around the world tomorrow; I can't be at the symposium in a week.
- He received a grant that he wanted: he deserved it and can be proud of himself.
- There would be concerts held in London, United Kingdom; Canberra, Australia; Prague, Czech Republic; and many other cities.
- I need the advanced devices for my project: telescope, sky map, rangefinder, binoculars, and easel.
- I have to visit my mother at the hospital tomorrow; I won't keep you company in an art gallery.
- I value only two qualities in people: honesty and decency.
As you can see, there is nothing difficult about following simple examples. This does not mean that you should spontaneously add these punctuation marks. Be consistent and try to consider all aspects of your assignment. Then you won't have a problem.
When to Use a Colon in an Essay?
Even though the colon is a rather versatile mark, you don't have to worry about doing something wrong in your essay. Typically, you will have a narrow range of uses for your colon. Here are three main cases for you:
- bulleted lists;
- numeric lists;
- lists without an order.
Typically, you will have to deal with this in your essay or any other type of assignment. Knowing this, you will not make elementary mistakes. Sometimes it's easier to rephrase a sentence than to add a lot of punctuation marks. But you can use colons, citations, indexes, and time references as appropriate. You will also be able to structure your thoughts. Now you know how to use a colon in an essay.
Useful Tips for Students
Now you know all the rules and can avoid basic mistakes. However, some newbies may still have difficulty with some tasks. There is nothing wrong with that. You are just starting to learn all the nuances of the English language. Here are some helpful tips to help you deal with many problems.
Always Look For Examples
Some students find it difficult to cope with assignments, even with basic rules. Take a look at examples. Let's say you need to make a list or add the correct punctuation mark to supplement, separate, or contrast individual clause parts. Typically, you can rephrase the example and have no problem with your paper. This advice is effective for beginners who find it difficult to remember all the rules at once. Feel free to use this advice.
Make Some Samples
You might find this odd advice. Nevertheless, beginners should make about 10-30 basic sentences. Then you can copy the examples and edit them. There is nothing wrong with starting with a trick like this. Certainly, you will need more time, but your professor will not point you to mistakes in every sentence. In addition, you can constantly look at ready-made sentences and quickly memorize all the rules.
Editing & Proofreading
Begin with a draft and start reviewing each sentence after you finish your assignment. Your task is to spend at least 30 minutes correcting all inaccuracies and punctuation errors. Feel free to use the help of friends or writing services to get a high grade shortly. Your job is to make your paper perfect. That is why even an extra hour to check each paragraph of your paper will be justified. But you should not rush. Otherwise, you risk only increasing the number of errors.
