Colons
Include a colon at the end of a phrase that directly introduces a list.
Example
You can create a backup of all sorts of things to make the transition easier, including:
- The apps you've installed on your phone, along with high scores and progress from participating apps.
- The passwords for your accounts.
- Your call history.
To learn more, see Lists.
Use colons sparingly at the end of a statement followed by a second statement that expands on it.
Example
Microsoft ActiveSync doesn't recognize this device for one of two reasons:
the device wasn't connected properly or the device isn't a
smartphone.
Most of the time, two sentences are more readable.
When you use a colon in a sentence, lowercase the word that follows it unless:
The colon introduces a direct quotation.
Example
What does it mean when I see a message that asks: "Are you trying to visit this site?"The first word after the colon is a proper noun.
Example
We're considering three cities for the event: Los Angeles, Munich, and Tokyo.
When you use a colon in a title or heading, capitalize the word that follows it.
Examples
Block party: Communities use Minecraft to create public spaces
Why girls lose interest in STEM: New research has some answers
Get started with Azure IoT: An interactive developer guide
Don’t use a colon when introducing lists of radio buttons or checkboxes.