Need help with the comma. Which one is correct?

Question

I have prepared and presented a strategic, objective, and tactical plan for board members

OR

I have prepared and presented a strategic, objective and tactical plan for board members

???

Thanks for the help! =)

Answer 1

Those who say the first is correct are more likely to be using academic and 'stricter' grammatical rules. They are correct.

Those who say the second are more likely to be using more modern grammar rules, and that style is more likely to be found in modern newspapers today (it's about space etc.). They are also correct.

When I write normally I use the first, but it's good to be aware that there are differing 'styles' e.g. academic, Associated Press style, New York Times style (note the answerer who said NYTimes style said the second was correct, newspaper style tends toward that).

Answer 2

The first one!

Answer 3

I've been taught both ways, actually. Presently, I put the comma after objective as well.

Answer 4

New York Times style book ca. 1961 recommends leaving out the comma before the and. The rule is "If in doubt, leave it out."

Answer 5

Every English teacher I've had from elementary school to college would say that the first one is right. The second one may not be totally incorrect, but I'd use the first one to be safe.

Answer 6

first one

Answer 7

The comma before the "and" shouldnt be there, but it's not that big of a deal

Answer 8

I learned it the former way, but, then, I'm old. I've been told this is incorrect, but not by anyone who has particularly impressed me with their intelligence.

Answer 9

I am pretty sure that both are accepted. I use them both, but they need to be consistent throughout your writing. Don't use them interchangeably. Pick one and stick with it.

Answer 10

they are both correct

check out "have." it throws your sentance off balance. prepared and presented are both past tense...

good luck, hope that's helpful