January 28, 2008
Writing
Tip of the Week
Correct Use of the
A
colon indicates that what follows is a series, summary, or elaboration of what
precedes it.
Ø
Use a
When you use a colon to introduce a
series, the material that precedes the colon must
be an independent clause that is grammatically complete.
**Note: Do not put a colon between a verb and its
object or between a preposition and
its object.
Incorrect--The subsections that do not apply are: 201-1, 201-1(3)(b),
and 201- 1(3)(c).
In the preceding example, a colon
has been incorrectly placed between the verb and
its objects. To correct the sentence either omit the colon or add an object between the verb and the colon.
Correct-- The subsections that do not apply are
201-1, 201-1(3)(b), and 201- 1(3)(c).
Correct—The subsections that do not apply are the
following: 201-1, 201- 1(3)(b),
and 201-1(3)(c).
Ø
Use a
The
damages were staggering: $1,986,000 in medical bills and $74,000 in lost wages.
You can also use a colon to join two independent
clauses if the first clause introduces
the second, or if the two clauses have a cause and effect relationship.
The
DNA evidence is vital: it is our only
proof that the defendant was at the scene.
Be
sure to double-space after a colon.
Adapted from: The
Legal Writing Handbook—Oates, Enquist, & Kunsch;
Plain English for Lawyers--Wydick
Prepared by Chris Dunn