Commas in a Series

A comma in a series is used to separate three or more items in a list.

You use commas in a series to clarify the items being listed, making the sentence easier to read.

I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.

A comma is placed before 'and' in a series of three or more items.

Missing comma before 'and': I like to swim, bike, and run.

To separate items in a list and avoid confusion.

My favorite colors are red, blue, and green.

Add commas: I need eggs, milk, and bread.

Missing comma before 'and': For breakfast, I had toast, eggs, and juice.

Omitting the comma before 'and' in a list of three or more items.