Index
Lists
Use a colon (:) to introduce lists in a sentence.
Example
- Jalapeño, habanero and Scotch bonnet: These three peppers together will literally melt your brain.
- There were three considerations: feasibility, time and butter beer.
Note: The first two examples capitalizes the first word of the phrase occurring after the colon because that phrase is a complete sentence. Otherwise, do not capitalize the first word after a colon unless it's a name or other proper noun.
Emphasis
Use a colon (:) in constructions that are meant to give emphasis:
Example
- His only hobby: harassing witch cats.
- He promised this: The witch cat would have her revenge.
DO NOT use a colon preceding a question. Per the "COMMAS" document, use a comma preceding a question.
Example
Incorrect: And the question of the day was: How did the ghost sock appear on the floor?
Correct: And the question of the day was, how did the ghost sock appear on the floor?
Semicolons
Semicolons will very rarely ever be used in Custom work. Their only usage will be in complex lists.
Example:
Is the answer: A, witch cats; B, niche hats; C, rich bats; or D, lich rats?