Commas in lists · Grade 4
In Grade 4 you get fluent with: no comma before the first item or after and.
When you write a list of three or more things in a sentence, put commas between the items. Before the last item, write and (or or) instead of a comma: I bought apples, pears and plums.
Key facts
- Don't put a comma before the first item or after and.
Worked examples
Example 1
Correct the commas: I like, football, tennis and, chess.
Answer: I like football, tennis and chess.
Example 2
Add commas to the list of longer items: I packed a warm coat a pair of boots and a big umbrella.
Answer: I packed a warm coat, a pair of boots and a big umbrella.
Example 3
Why does this list need an extra comma? This book is for my parents, Nelson Mandela and Malala.
Answer: without a comma before and it sounds as if your parents are the two famous people