Lists can be part of a paragraph
The testing program includes English language, math, and science.
Or arranged vertically and bulleted
The testing program includes:
· English language,
· Math, and
· Science
For both, follow these two rules:
1. All items in a list must be in parallel structure. If the first item starts with a noun, all the items should start with a noun; if the first item starts with a verb, all the items must start with a verb in the same tense.
2. Except for the last item, all items in a list should end with the same punctuation. Sentences should end with a period. Complex phrases (those with internal commas) should end with a semicolon. Simple phrases or single should end with a comma. The last item should always end with a period.
For lists within the body of a paragraph, ONLY use a colon to introduce the list after an introductory phrase or a complete sentence. If items in a list within the body of a paragraph are identified with letters or numbers, each letter or number should be enclosed in parentheses. For example, (1) …
The fund pays for basic programs. For example: literacy, math, and science.
The fund pays for three programs: (1) literacy, (2) physical education, and (3) fine arts.
The fund pays for literacy, physical education, and fine arts.
Long lists should be vertical – aligned down the page to give the reader easy access to the information. Each item should be preceded by a bullet or number and start with a capital letter. The list should be introduced with a colon, even if it’s not an introductory phrase or a complete sentence. This is a common practice that violates the basic grammar rule prohibiting using punctuation between a subject and its verb or a verb and its complement. Most style manuals discourage it, but it has become so commonplace, it now has its own name: the interrupting colon. The style manual allows it but ONLY for a vertical list.
Some examples:
The fund pays for:
· Literacy programs for kindergarten through third grade,
· Science education for fourth grade, and
· Fine arts for fifth and sixth grade.
The fund pays for:
· Literacy programs for kindergarten through third grade;
· Literacy and science programs for fourth grade; and
· Fine arts, literacy, and science programs for fifth and sixth grade.