Colons

Colons are used in two ways on the SAT Writing and Language portions of the SAT.

1. Before a list

2. Before an explanation

In the SAT Writing and Language section, colons can be used to introduce a list, explanation, or example. For instance, "The store sells various fruits: apples, oranges, and bananas."

In the SAT Writing and Language section, colons are often used to introduce a list, explanation, or example. They are an important punctuation mark that can help you improve the clarity and organization of your writing. By using a colon, you can signal to your reader that you are about to provide additional information that is related to the preceding sentence.

For instance, in the sentence "The store sells various fruits: apples, oranges, and bananas," the colon is used to introduce a list of fruits that the store sells. This use of the colon allows the writer to present the information in a clear and concise manner, making it easy for the reader to understand.

In addition to introducing lists, colons can also be used to provide explanations or examples. For example, you might write, "There are three primary colors: red, blue, and yellow." In this sentence, the colon is used to introduce an explanation of what the three primary colors are.

Overall, colons are a versatile punctuation mark that can be used to improve the clarity and organization of your writing. By mastering their use, you can make your writing more effective and engaging for your readers.

Colons Before a List

The SAT Writing portion requires the use of a colon before a list to enhance clarity and organization. For instance, when listing your favorite hobbies: hiking, reading, and playing guitar, it is important to use a colon to introduce the list and avoid confusion.

Colon Before an Explanation

When a colon comes before an explanation, a complete sentence usually follows. As a result, a colon, a semicolon, a period, and a dash are all acceptable in some cases.

The amazon parrot does not make an ideas pet for most people: it requires much more attention than many other animals do.

The amazon parrot does not make an ideas pet for most people. It requires much more attention than many other animals do.

• Colons can be used to introduce an explanation or example.

• The sentence before the colon must be an independent clause.

• The explanation after the colon can be a phrase or a clause.

• The explanation should clarify or provide additional information about the independent clause.

• Colons should not be used after a verb or preposition.

Because all of these types of punctuation are often interchangable, you will not usually be asked to decide amongst them. However, a colon is only correct if the second clause explains the first. Otherwise a different punctuation should be used.

Dashes

Because dashes are used more frequently in British English than in American English, they tend to be the least familiar type of punctuation for many test0takers.

Dashes have three major uses:

1. Set of a non-essential clause

2. Introduce a list of explanation

3. Create a deliberate pause

Set of a non-essential clause

Similarly to a comma, dashes can be used to remove unnecessary information.

For example, "The book, which was written by my favorite author, is on the bestseller list." The clause "which was written by my favorite author" is non-essential and can be removed without changing the meaning of the sentence. In this case, a dash is used to set off the non-essential clause.

Before a list or explanation

A dash can also be used in place of a colon, to set off a definition or explanation. The dash vs colon distinction is purely stylistic. As a result, you will not be asked to choose between an answer with a colon and one with a dash unless one of the option is clearly preferable for other reasons.

Create a Pause

Dashes can also be used for stylistic purposes: to deliberately interrupt a statement or to create a dramatic effect pause of effect.

The sun was setting, casting a warm orange glow over the horizon - it was a beautiful sight to behold.

She opened the door to the dark, empty room - and suddenly heard a loud noise coming from the corner.