Using Commas in Lists
Separate items with commas; and before the last.
Examples
- apples, bananas, and grapes
Key rules
- Separate three or more items with commas
- Use a comma before "and" in the last item in British and American writing if it clarifies meaning
- Do not add a comma after "and"
Common mistakes
- apples, bananas and, grapes → apples, bananas, and grapes
- I like cats, dogs and, rabbits → I like cats, dogs and rabbits
Use cases
- Writing a shopping list in full sentences
- Listing skills on a CV
- Describing a menu or a set of options
💡 Tip: Serial commas are optional in British English but are common in American English, so check your style guide.