Is ok to write a sentence using comas in this fashion for example, "1, 2, and 3"?

Answer 1

It is "OK", but this "serial comma" (or "Oxford comma" or "Harvard comma") is a matter of debate -- some insist on it, some insist you avoid it!

Despite the generalizations, it is difficult to label the use or omission of it as specifically "American" or "British". Style manuals in each country dispute it. (These days it seems manuals for the MEDIA advise AGAINST it, while more "conserative" manuals for academic or government use --at least in America-- often advocate it.)

Personally, I prefer to use common sense. The main issue should be whether it produces greater clarity or not. I would suggest that you look carefully to see whether adding it clarifies your sense (as it may when some of the elements are complex) OR makes it LESS clear... or if perhaps it makes no difference at all.

It it clarifies, use it.
If it muddies things, get rid of it.
If it makes little difference, the choice is yours. (MY preference in that case it to omit it. In other words, use it ONLY when it helps.)

Answer 2

1) The rain, if it had any affect, actually improved the whole effect of the fireworks. 2) It was then that we decided to go to the dance rather than the movie. 3) It's Springtime and the flowers are basking in its warmth. 4) I wonder ir they're going over there to get their luggage. 5) I just wanted you to know that I like you too. 6) I accept your apology except for the part about forever being in my debt. 7) I wish I new whether the weather is going to hold out or not. 8) Just because it is considered an everyday fashion, you don't have to wear it every day. 9) Even if you don't do anything else, make sure you pay your dues. 10) If you don't tighten those loose nuts, you're going to lose your wheel. 11) Even though Frank had fewer pecan trees than Tracy, Tracy harvested less pecans than Frank. 12) If you're taking the car, you won't need your umbrella. 13) I lead the soldiers until my commanding officer took the lead and led us back to camp.

Answer 3

American English uses 1, 2, and 3.
British English uses 1, 2 and 3.
The comma is omitted betwwen the last and the previous.

Answer 4

It is quite correct to use commas this way.
When I was still at school, a comma could never be used before the word "and", it was just taken for granted that it was there. Now, however, the rules of grammar have been changed and this is quite acceptable.

Answer 5

If it is simply a list of things, you don't use the second comma - you would say "Ham, eggs and chips" for instance.
But it depends on the sentence and its context - there are times when you would use the second comma to avoid misinterpretations.
Give us the sentence and we can advise.

Answer 6

Yes, in fact, the commas are required. This is a series, just like a series of words.

Cats, mice, and dogs.

In the US we use a comma before the "and," but in Britain, it is not used.

Answer 7

SLF's use of "chips" and one comma confirms Ghouly's comment about British usage, which comes naturally to me. However, if I wish to stress the importance of the third item I would use two commas.

Answer 8

NO
These are only used in Direct Speech
I said, "1,2 and 3 is correct."

Answer 9

A comma before the "and" is optional.

Answer 10

Yes. Commas can be used in that very way.