How do you list things with commas?

How do you list things with commas?

Rule 1. Use commas to separate words and word groups in a simple series of three or more items. Example: My estate goes to my husband, son, daughter-in-law, and nephew. Note: When the last comma in a series comes before and or or (after daughter-in-law in the above example), it is known as the Oxford comma.

Do you start a list with a comma?

So the rules are clear: Use a listing comma in a list wherever you could conceivably use the word and (or or) instead. Do not use a listing comma anywhere else. Put a listing comma before and or or only if this is necessary to make your meaning clear.

Do lists need commas?

There’s no single rule that applies to all situations. You usually put a comma before and when it’s connecting two independent clauses. It’s almost always optional to put a comma before and in a list.

How do you separate a list in a sentence?

Use a semicolon to separate items in a list containing internal punctuation. Use a semicolon to join/separate closely related, complete sentences. The semicolon is stronger than a comma, but weaker than a period (full stop).

Do you use colons for lists?

Use a colon to introduce an item or list, if the list comes after a complete sentence or independent clause. For example: There are three things every dog needs: food, water and healthcare.

How do you list things in MLA format?

One way to write a list in MLA format is to keep it within your sentence. Use a colon to introduce it. If the items in your list include commas, use semicolons instead of commas to separate them.

What is the correct way to punctuate the sentence?

How to punctuate

• Separate danglers with a comma.
• If you can, use a period instead of a comma.
• In a list, use a comma before the final “and”
• Use a comma before introducing a question.
• Don’t use a comma to represent vocal pauses.
• Don’t use ellipses.
• Avoid semicolons.
• Only use colons for standalone sentences.