What is the correct punctuation for a list?

There are three punctuation marks involved in making a list in a sentence: the comma, colon, and semicolon. Which you use depends on how complex your list is. If you are writing a simple list, you can just insert a comma after each item.

How do you write a list in a sentence with a colon?

Rule 1: Use the colon after a complete sentence to introduce a list of items when introductory words such as namely, for example, or that is do not apply or are not appropriate. Examples: You may be required to bring many items: sleeping bags, pans, and warm clothing.

Do I use a comma or semicolon for lists?

Semicolons can be used to link items in a list, such as objects, locations, names and descriptions. Where the list items already contain commas, a semicolon helps avoid confusion between the items; in this way the semicolon acts like a ‘super comma’.

How do you write a list?

You should create bulleted lists starting with a lead-in then using between 4-10 list items. For most list items, you will use bullet points. A bulleted list delineates items in which the order doesn’t matter, such as items on a grocery list or types of software.

How do you separate a list in a list?

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 use and in a list?

If you are listing simple items, as above, separate each item with a comma. You should use “and” or “or” just before the last item to indicate the conclusion of the list. “And” is inclusive and means all of the items mentioned apply, whereas “or” indicates that only one of the items is relevant.

How do you write a list in a research paper?

In APA style, you will generally list items by using bullet points. You should introduce the list with a sentence that is followed by a colon. The first letter of each item is capitalized, and you can use semicolons after each point if it’s appropriate to do so.

How do you introduce a list?

Most importantly, a list must be introduced by a lead-in sentence (or clause) that contains both a subject and a verb. Technical writers often use the expression “the following” somewhere in the lead-in sentence to clearly indicate that a list of items will follow.

What do you put before a list in a sentence?

Colons
  • To announce, introduce, or direct attention to a list, a noun or noun phrase, a quotation, or an example/explanation. You can use a colon to draw attention to many things in your writing. …
  • To join sentences. …
  • To express time, in titles, and as part of other writing conventions.

How do I make a list in text?

The most basic type of list appears in the running text of a sentence, with each item separated by a comma. All lists in APA Style should include a serial comma—the final comma before the conjunction. For example, Each child was given a plush toy, a building block, and a rubber ball.