4. Getting Started with a List
Introduce lists with an opening sentence that includes both subject and verb tenses; technical writers often use phrases such as ‘the following’ or similar to signal that there will be lists to follow.
Lists must logically complete a lead-in sentence even if they include items unrelated to its subject matter, for instance a list about pandas could include that they possess black and white fur, can solve complex problems, and consume vegetables.
If your lead-in to a list is an entire sentence, end it with a period. Otherwise, punctuate your list using colons or full stops as appropriate. Implementing parallel structure across all bullet points helps your writing appear professional and polished.
