Photo credit: Bored Panda

Don’t get a grammar nerd started on the Oxford comma. Some editors love it, others hate it. Here at CSMLS, though, we shouldn’t use it. As such, don’t add a comma directly before the final “and,” “or” or “nor” at the end of a list. Example: This summer has been hot, humid and rainy. The only time you should add this comma is if it is absolutely necessary to avoid confusion.

Apart from the Oxford comma, there are a few other comma guidelines you should know. Add a comma directly after an introductory clause. Example: Because water is healthy for you, drink more of it. Also, use commas for transition words (e.g., meanwhile, indeed, of course and as such).

Using commas when describing geographical locations is simple. Examples:

Mike went to Edmonton, Alberta.

Allison went to Winnipeg, Manitoba, for her friend’s birthday party.

Also, use a comma to separate a year when it is listed with a month followed by a day. Example: July 24, 2019.