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In creative writing especially, writers are free to choose to achieve their desired flow of text. In more formal writing, however, punctuation is expected after an introduction for a quotation. The rules are quite lax. Below is some general guidance:
The strongest rule is the following one: Use a colon after an introduction that is an independent clause. Quotation marks are not used for reported speech. (Reported speech is usually preceded by the word "that.") Only use quotation marks for actual quotations of speech or writing. Look at these similar examples:
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Rule 1: Use the colon after a complete sentence to introduce a list of items when introductory words such as namely, for example, or that is do not apply or are not appropriate. Examples: I want an assistant who can do the following: (1) input data, (2) write reports, and (3) complete tax forms. Rule 2: A colon usually does not precede a list unless it follows a complete sentence. Examples: To be successful in sales, one should (a) dress appropriately, (b) ask customers about their needs, and (c) follow through. Rule 3: With tabular format, a colon customarily precedes a list. If the introductory statement is a complete sentence and the listed items are complete sentences as well, the listed items are capitalized and punctuated as complete sentences. Examples: If the listed items are each a separate completion of the introductory statement, the listed items are punctuated accordingly and are not capitalized. To be successful in sales, one should: It is also acceptable to use and before the last phrase, making the listed items a continuation of the introductory statement. As continuations, they would be punctuated with commas and not capitalized. To be successful in sales, one should: Note: To be successful in sales, one should: To be successful in sales, one should: Note: With lists, you may use periods after numbers and letters instead of parentheses. For our meeting on Tuesday, please: Pop Quiz Add punctuation if needed. 1. The following are required (a) wet suits, (b) fins, (c) snorkels. 2. Please bring (a) wet suits, (b) fins, and (c) snorkels. Pop Quiz Answers 1. The following are required: (a) wet suits, (b) fins, (c) snorkels. If the article or the existing discussions do not address a thought or question you have on the subject, please use the "Comment" box at the bottom of this page. |