Use colons mainly to introduce quoted passages of text, explanations, examples or summations and long or complex lists. A colon is nearly always preceded by a complete sentence; what follows it may or may not be a complete sentence, and may be a list or even a single word.

Small_OK University orientation provides a range of activities for new students: tours, workshops and social events.
Small_OK Research centres are facing a troubling situation: budgets are shrinking.
Small_OK They proposed the creation of a new post: unit coordinator.

For further guidance on using colons, please consult the following sections:

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