Benjamin L. Stewart

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Serial or Oxford Comma

How to Use the Serial Comma (Oxford Comma) | English Punctuation Rules | ESL Writing EssentialsHow to Use the Serial Comma (Oxford Comma) | English Punctuation Rules | ESL Writing Essentials - Notes

The serial comma, also known as the Oxford comma, is a punctuation mark used in lists to separate items. It is placed before the conjunction (usually “and” or “or”) that precedes the final item in the list. The use of the serial comma can vary based on style guides and regional preferences.

The purpose of the serial comma is to avoid ambiguity and ensure clarity in sentences with complex lists. Its usage can prevent misinterpretation of the relationships between items in a list. However, opinions about its necessity and usage differ among writers and editors.

To understand the serial comma better, let’s look at some examples:

  1. Without the serial comma:

    • I bought apples, bananas and oranges.

    • Here, it may be unclear whether “bananas and oranges” is a single entity or separate items.

  2. With the serial comma:

    • I bought apples, bananas, and oranges.

    • The serial comma clarifies that each item is distinct, avoiding ambiguity.

  3. Another example without the serial comma:

    • She invited her parents, Barack Obama and Oprah Winfrey.

    • Without the serial comma, it may seem that her parents are Barack Obama and Oprah Winfrey.

  4. With the serial comma:

    • She invited her parents, Barack Obama, and Oprah Winfrey.

    • The serial comma clarifies that her parents are separate from Barack Obama and Oprah Winfrey.

Now, let’s explore how to avoid using the serial comma when desired:

  1. Use sentence restructuring:

    • Instead of “I like reading, writing, and painting,” you can say “I like reading, writing, and I also enjoy painting.”

  2. Use parentheses:

    • “My favorite fruits are apples, bananas (I love them when they’re ripe), and oranges.”

    • Here, the parentheses help provide additional information without relying on the serial comma.

  3. Use semicolons:

    • “He packed his camera; a notebook and pen; and some snacks.”

    • By using semicolons, you can separate items in a list without relying on the serial comma.

The serial comma is required when writing academic texts according to the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (APA), (2020, p. 155).

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