Writing · Free lesson
Use a colon to introduce a short list
A list does not automatically need a colon. Where you put it depends on the words that come before it.
Professor Scott MendozaThe short answer
In a normal prose sentence, a colon (:) can introduce a list after a complete lead-in: I packed three things: a notebook, a pen and a charger. I packed three things already works as a sentence.
Finish the lead-in, then name the items.
In I packed a pen, the object a pen completes the verb packed. Do not split that ordinary verb-and-object pattern with a colon. To announce a list, give the verb a complete object first, such as three things, then use the colon before the items.
A list with or without a colon
I packed three things: a notebook, a pen and a charger.
I packed a notebook, a pen and a charger.
My bag contains three things: a notebook, a pen and a charger.
The list after the colon does not need its own subject and verb. The complete-sentence check applies to the lead-in in this pattern.
Build the introduction first
Check the complete thought
I packed three things.
Identify the three items
a notebook, a pen and a charger
Add the list after the colon
I packed three things: a notebook, a pen and a charger.
Try it now
Where does the list begin?
Read all answers and explanations
Which sentence puts a colon after a complete lead-in and then lists three fruits?
I bought three fruits: apples, pears and bananas.I bought three fruits is complete before the colon. I bought is unfinished here; placing the colon after three splits the noun phrase three fruits.
Which lead-in can stand as a complete sentence before : paper, tape and scissors in this pattern?
We need three itemsWe need three items expresses a complete thought. The equipment includes and We need still leave the expected object unstated.
Which version correctly uses a colon to introduce the two tools in a prose sentence?
We need two tools: a hammer and a saw.We need two tools is a complete lead-in. The list explains which tools. A semicolon is not the taught mark for attaching this simple noun list.
Put it into practice
Repair the list introduction.
Keep a colon introducing the same three items. Add the words needed to make the lead-in complete.
We need: paper, tape and scissors.
See a model answer
We need three things: paper, tape and scissors.
Adding three things completes We need before the colon. Removing the colon would also produce a correct sentence, but this task specifically asks you to keep a colon introducing the list.
A little more clarity
Common questions
A few useful details before you move on.
Does every list need a colon?
No. Items can fit directly into the sentence without one. You can also use a serial comma before the final and if your chosen style requires it.
We need paper, tape and scissors.
What about a label such as Shopping list:?
Short headings and labels can follow different conventions. This lesson’s complete-lead-in check applies to the ordinary prose sentences being practised, not every label.
Shopping list: paper, tape, scissors
Take it into your day
Complete introduction first; the list follows the colon.
Your next step · Available on Udemy
Make punctuation support your meaning.
The English Grammar and English Speaking course includes a Colon lesson within English Punctuation Marks, alongside other punctuation lessons. That broader foundation helps you make written sentences clearer, beyond this one list pattern.
Explore the course English Master Course: English Grammar and English Speaking