Semicolons and Colons Name ____________________
Semicolons are used to separate two related independent clauses when (a) a coordinating
conjunction (and, but, or, nor) has been omitted or (b) when a transitional expression (such as
however, therefore, consequently) introduces the second clause. Be sure to use a comma after
the transitional expression.
Colons are used (a) after an independent clause that introduces one item, two items, or a formal
list, (b) to introduce long quotations, and (c) to separate two clauses when the second clause
explains the first.
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Add missing semicolons, colons, or commas to the following sentences. If no punctuation is
needed, write C. Do not add periods to start new sentences.
1. We have received your application you will hear from us shortly.
2. The manager had a problem she needed to hire an employee quickly.
3. She said “I had two candidates with the same level of experience. Both did well in their tests
and interviews.”
13. Job applicants were astounded by one fact nearly 15 percent of hiring managers won‘t hire
someone who doesn’t send a thank-you note.
Key
1. We have received your application; you will hear from us shortly.
Use a semicolon to separate two independent clauses that are not joined by a
coordinating conjunction.
5. One candidate called right back after the interview; she made it clear that she wanted the job.
Use a semicolon to separate two independent clauses that are not joined by a
coordinating conjunction.
6. We value candidates who show these qualities: enthusiasm, perseverance, and initiative.
Use a colon to introduce listed items following an independent clause.
7. If you have ever been through an interview, you probably worked hard to make a good
impression before and during the interview.
C. No semicolons or colons are needed.
13. Job applicants were astounded by one fact: nearly 15 percent of hiring managers won’t hire
someone who doesn‘t send a thank-you note.
Use a colon to introduce a clause that explains the first clause.
14. Following up takes planning, initiative, and attention to detail.
C. This sentence requires no colon because the list does not follow an independent
clause. The list acts as the object of the verb and completes the clause. One easy way to
remember this is that colons are not used following verbs or prepositions.