In writing, punctuation marks are included to aid the flow of thoughts of the narrative. You include them to indicate a change in the line of thought, an inflection or change in tone, when a new idea is introduced, or perhaps to recall something from the past.
In this regard, how well do you use some of these punctuation marks; with the focus of this article being semicolons, colons and dashes?
Semicolons (;)
Use a semicolon to separate two main clauses not joined by a coordinating conjunction:
Those who write clearly have readers; those who write obscurely have commentators.
We can also use a semicolon to separate main clauses joined by a conjunctive adverb (such as however, consequently, otherwise, moreover, nevertheless):
A great many people may think that they are thinking; however, most are merely rearranging their prejudices.
Basically, a semicolon (whether followed by a conjunctive adverb or not) serves to coordinate two main clauses.
Colons (:)
Use a colon to set off a summary or a series after a complete main clause:
My set of provisions for the next term is already decided: 3 packs of cornflakes, 2 large tins of Milo and Peak milk, 2 dozen canned Titus sardines and all such things I may come up with.
Dashes (–)
Use a dash to set off a short summary after a complete main clause:
At the bottom of Pandora’s box lay the final gift – hope.
In the great empires of antiquity – Egypt, Babylon, Assyria, Persia – splendid though they were, freedom was unknown.
NOTE: These three punctuation marks – semicolons, colons, and dashes – are most effective when used sparingly.
Source: about.com
