Thread by @APStylebook

Let’s start with a topic we rarely hear about: the Oxford comma! We say: Use commas to separate elements in a series, but do not put a comma before the conjunction in most simple series: The flag is red, white and blue. He would pick Deb, Xin, Lou or Alfredo. #APStyleChat (1/9)

Note! The no-Oxford comma rule applies only to simple series when it's not needed for clarity or accuracy. We certainly call for the comma whenever it's needed to make the meaning clear. #APStyleChat (2/9)

Of course, we would use the Oxford comma in this example: The speakers included two astronauts, Mitch McConnell, and Hillary Clinton. And yes, that also goes for the various examples involving strippers. #APStyleChat (3/9)

Without that second comma, the sentence would say that McConnell and Clinton are astronauts (or strippers). #APStyleChat (4/9)

The Oxford comma isn’t needed for clarity here, so don’t use it: Her favorite sports are cycling, running and swimming. #APStyleChat (5/9)

Why our Oxford comma style? It's consistent with our general rule for punctuation: Use punctuation that is needed; don't use what's not needed. #APStyleChat (6/9)

If a comma doesn’t help make clear what is being said, don’t use it. But: If the comma is needed for accuracy or clarity, then be sure to use it. That includes the Oxford comma, when you need it for clarity. #APStyleChat (7/9)

Put a comma before the concluding conjunction in a series if an integral element of the series requires a conjunction. For example: I had orange juice, toast, and ham and eggs for breakfast. #APStyleChat (8/9)

Use a comma before the last conjunction in a complex series of phrases: Some people believe the Stylebook bans Oxford commas, but we use a comma when it adds clarity, when the final phrase includes a conjunction, or generally when it's not a simple series. #APStyleChat (9/9)