MTEL Communication Literacy Skills : Writing Practice Test

What is the correct way to use a colon?

1. After a verb in a sentence

2. After a conjunction in a dependent clause

3. After an independent clause

4. After a preposition in a phrase

The correct answer is: After an independent clause

Using a colon correctly is essential for clarity and precision in writing. A colon is typically used after an independent clause because it signals that what follows will expand on, explain, or illustrate the information presented in the first part of the sentence. This structure helps to guide readers and indicate that further details, examples, or lists will be provided. For instance, in the sentence "She had one primary goal: to improve her public speaking skills," the independent clause "She had one primary goal" is introduced, and the colon effectively leads into a more specific explanation of that goal. The other contexts for using colons are not standard and can lead to confusion or incorrect usage. Therefore, positioning a colon after an independent clause is the correct approach.