A colon introduces a list, introduces a restatement of the main clause, appears at the end of a main clause and introduces an elaboration of the main clause.

1. Punctuation
Colon
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2.  Colon
 One of the easiest forms of punctuation
 Its basic function is to introduce – words, lists,
phrases, salutations (in business letters), to provide
additional details and explanations
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3.  A colon gives emphasis to a statement
 A reader pays attention to what comes next
 e.g. Monica has only one thing on her mind:
her child.
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4.  Used after the salutation (formal or business
letter)
 Dear Sir:
 Dear Madam:
 To whom it may concern:
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5.  To provide additional details and explanations
 e.g. She had many reasons to read for a
Bachelor of Engineering: to get additional
qualifications, to get a good job and to
improve her knowledge
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6.  To introduce lists or ideas
 e.g. I have visited many countries: Australia,
Thailand, France and Germany
 Aditya is successful in life because of one
good quality: he is hard working.
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7.  To introduce a direct quotation
 e.g. She announced to her friends: “I will
be going abroad.”
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8.  Do not use a colon after a verb
 Do not keep a space before a colon
 Keep a space after a colon
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9.  Incorrect:
 My favorite foods are: rice, noodles and pasta.
 My favorite countries are: the United States of America,
Australia, Germany and France.
 Correct:
 I have three favorite foods: rice, noodles and pasta.
 I have four favorite countries: the United States of America,
Australia, Germany and France
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10. Thank you!
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