Do you use commas or semicolons in a list?

Do you use commas or semicolons in a list?

Items in lists are usually separated with commas. However, if the list items themselves contain commas, then semicolons can be used as separators to outrank those commas. But according to your question, if the contents of the list are actually separate things, then it makes sense to use commas.

What is the proper punctuation before a list?

Use a colon before a list when the list is preceded by a complete independent clause. Never use a colon to separate a preposition from its objects or a verb from its complements. Some form of the word follow usually indicates a colon before the list.

What is the correct punctuation for a list?

Punctuation is used to separate the items in the list. The usual way of doing this is to place a comma after each item in the list: The school has a vegetable garden in which the children grow cabbages, onions, potatoes, and carrots. The last item in a list is often preceded by the words and or or.

How do you punctuate a list of sentences?

The Right Way to Punctuate Listsa comma or no punctuation for lists that do not contain the main verb.a full stop after each sentence for lists that contain at least one item with multiple sentences.a semicolon otherwise.

How do you separate a list in a sentence?

Usually, we use a comma to separate three items or more in a list. However, if one or more of these items contain commas, then you should use a semicolon, instead of a comma, to separate the items and avoid potential confusion.

How do you list more than 3 things in a sentence?

Punctuate items in a series correctly. Whenever you have three or more items in a series, each item requires punctuation to separate it from the others. Depending on the complexity of the list, you can use either commas or semicolons.

How do you punctuate a list of bullet points?

Punctuating Bullet PointsUse a period (full stop) after every bullet point that is a sentence (as these bullets do).Use a period after every bullet point that completes the introductory stem.Use no punctuation after bullets that are not sentences and do not complete the stem.Use all sentences or all fragments, not a mixture.

How do you use semicolons in a list?

Use a semicolon between items in a list or series if any of the items contain commas. There are basically two ways to write: with a pen or pencil, which is inexpensive and easily accessible; or by computer and printer, which is more expensive but quick and neat.

Do bullet points need capital letters?

Punctuation with bullet points If the text of your bullet point is a complete sentence (or multiple sentences), use capital letters and punctuation. If your points are not structured as proper sentences, you don’t need to end with punctuation.

Do you use a colon or semicolon before bullet points?

Bullet points, often called dot points, are more commonly used than numbers in lists, but numbers are useful if the order matters or if you want to refer to specific points within the list. Most lists are introduced with a colon ( : ), not a semicolon (a common mistake). The most common is the round black bullet point.

How do you make a colon with a list?

Use a colon to introduce an item or list, if the list comes after a complete sentence or independent clause. For example: There are three things every dog needs: food, water and healthcare.

How do you end a semicolon in a list?

If the items in the list are phrases or clauses with punctuation in them, put a semicolon at the end of each item. Put “and” (or, if logic dictates, “or”) after the next-to-last item in the list and a period after the last item. The items are not capitalized (except for proper nouns).

Can you put a colon after a preposition?

Do not use a colon after a preposition (such as “in”), or a verb, that introduces a list.

What are some examples of semicolons?

Examples of Semicolons: Joan likes eggs; Jennifer does not. The cat slept through the storm; the dog cowered under the bed. Semicolons are also used in a sentence when something stronger than a comma is needed.

Do you put a semicolon after for example?

Use a semicolon before such words and terms as namely, however, therefore, that is, i.e., for example, e.g., for instance, etc., when they introduce a complete sentence. It is also preferable to use a comma after these words and terms. Example: Bring any two items; however, sleeping bags and tents are in short supply.

Can you use a colon and semicolon in the same sentence?

Colons and semicolons can be used in the same sentence, but they are each used for different purposes.

What are semicolons commas?

A semicolon is used to separate two ideas (two independent clauses) that are closely related. They can also be used when listing complex ideas or phrases that use commas within them. Essentially, a semicolon is like a comma with more meaning or a colon with more flexibility.