Science Forums 2

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Originally Posted by moo

When using "and" or "or" at the end of a series (items, etc.), is it proper to use a comma immediately preceeding, or does it matter?

For example...

With preceeding comma:
You may use hammers, rocks, clubs, or sticks.
I found hammers, rocks, clubs, and sticks.

Without preceeding comma:
You may use hammers, rocks, clubs or sticks.
I found hammers, rocks, clubs and sticks.

I see it written both ways.

Thanks, moo

I always have to look up the comma rules myself; however, the semicolon is in my opinion underused.

Originally Posted by grammar.edu

You may have learned that the comma before the "and" is unnecessary, which is fine if you're in control of things. However, there are situations in which, if you don't use this comma (especially when the list is complex or lengthy), these last two items in the list will try to glom together (like macaroni and cheese).

http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/commas.htm