Using "Include/including" in sentences.

One of my readers asked recently if I would clarify the proper way to use "include" in a sentence. The simple, direct answer is WITHOUT A COLON. Just go right on with what is included. Here are some examples:



The Grammar Glitches that annoy me most include subject/verb agreement and apostrophe goofs.



The newly appointed board members include Sam Jones, Polly Troxell, and Jim Henry.



Notice that neither of these sentences requires a colon after INCLUDE.




If you use the word "including," it may help clarify to put a comma BEFORE it, but you still do not need a colon after it. More examples:



Everyone survived, including the family dog.



The price for the ticket is $15.75 including sales tax.



The band has five members, including a drummer, two guitars, a violin, and a flute.



The only time you would place a colon after "include" is when you are setting up a bullet list rather than a sentence, as in these examples:



Your choices for the banquet menu include:

• roast beef with mashed potatoes, gravy, and green beans


• chicken quesadillas with cheesy nachos


• moo goo gai pan

Optional side trips for this cruise include:

• visiting a glacier


• photographing seals at play


• dining in an old-time saloon

My thanks to Rachel for suggesting this topic.