Do you start a list with a colon or semicolon?

Semicolons separate items within a list, while a colon precedes and introduces a list. He took three things on the hike; his lunch, his binoculars, and his trusty walking stick.

How do you introduce a question with a colon?

Use a colon at the end of a complete statement to introduce a question. Example: The primary question is this: Should we give up or keep working diligently toward our goal? Use a colon to separate a title from its subtitle. Use a colon after the salutation in a formal letter.

How do you start an introductory quote?

Summing Up on How to Start an Essay With a Quote

avoid using clichés for quotations;
use unique and credible quotes;
provide the context for the quote;
ensure that a quote relates to a thesis statement;

When should a colon be used examples?

Colons

To announce, introduce, or direct attention to a list, a noun or noun phrase, a quotation, or an example/explanation.
To join sentences.
To express time, in titles, and as part of other writing conventions.
Using a colon between a verb and its object or complement.
Using a colon between a preposition and its object.

Do you need quotation marks for block quotes?

Unlike quotes integrated into your text, block quotes do not need quotation marks. Note the placement of the punctuation. After a block quote, the punctuation is placed before the citation, not after.

Why use a colon instead of a comma?

Rule: Also use the semicolon when you already have commas within a sentence for smaller separations, and you need the semicolon to show bigger separations. Rule: A colon is used to introduce a second sentence that clarifies the first sentence.

How do you create a block quote?

Basics

Block quotations start on their own line.
The entire block quotation is indented 0.5 inches, the same as the indentation for a new paragraph, and is double spaced.
Block quotations are not surrounded by any quotation marks.
The punctuation at the end of the block quotation goes before the citation.