![]() ![]() AP suggests that a short list like the first example above does not need a comma. The AP Stylebook, however, gives the writer more discretion about when to use the comma before “and” in a series. And if you develop the habit of always using a comma, it keeps punctuation decisions simple. The purpose of the serial comma (also known as the Oxford comma) is to avoid confusion, or improve clarity. Most style guides recommend using the serial comma. And, when it comes to the serial comma, the style guides don’t all agree. ![]() Writers and editors refer to one or more well-established style guides, such as the Associated Press Stylebook, The Chicago Manual of Style, or the Oxford University Style Manual. A thrown-together outfit might be stunning at a late-night club, but when it comes to your professional image in writing, you should decide on a style and stick to it. Writing style isn’t exactly like fashion, where certain looks are trendy and others are “so yesterday.” It’s more like using tasteful accessories that pull your look together. Of course, good grammar and clear punctuation do matter in your professional writing, but there is a difference between rules and style. ![]() When you have a list of items, clauses or sentences that connect with “and,” you can use the serial comma - or not. ![]()
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