Teaching Others
Ⅰ.
[2] In a series of three or more terms with a single conjunction, use a comma after each term except the last.
Ⅱ.
[11] Do not explain too much!!
red, white, and blue
gold, silver, or copper
He opened the letter; read it, adn made a note of its contents.
This comma is often referred to as the "serial" comma.
What is a "serial" comma??
It states that when a list begins, put a comma after each of the objects in that list except the last one. This comma also easily identifies separate items when you are listing something in your writing.
ex)
She doesn't like play volleyball, soccer
,or
basket ball
,and
,or
,but
Oxford Comma
This could also be known as the Oxford comma. Because it has traditionally been used at Oxford University by editors and printers.
Exception
There is one exception to the Serial Comma Rule. When there is a list in a business firm name, there is typically only a comma after the first object in the list.
Use the serial comma
"I love my parents, Sting and Lady Gaga."
Without the serial comma, the sentence above could be interpreted as stating that you love your parents, and your parents are Sting and Lady Gaga.
Here's the same sentence with the serial comma:
"I love my parents, Sting, and Lady Gaga."
But those who oppose the serial comma argue that rephrasing an already unclear sentence can solve the same problems that using the serial comma does.
"I love Sting, Lady Gaga and my parents."
The Serial comma is completely optional. But sometimes without it meanings of sentences can change completely.
So, Use the serial comma!!
Be wary to use adverbs
Adverbs aren't bad and you can use them, but use them sparingly. Because most adverbs end in "ly".
ex)
He reolies sparingly.
He said begrudgingly.
He said hurriedly.
She said thoughtfully.
She said quietly
She said consequently.
Adverbs a plenty
Having some adverbs is fine. But using too many adverbs can mess the text and perplexing the reader.
ex)
"Is anyone here?" she asked quietly.
"What happened?" he asked curiously.
"Who's there!" she screamed unexpectedly.
How to fix it??
Insetead of using an adverb, let the conversation itself or actions of the character disclose thier feelings.
with adverb:
"I don't know," she said nervously.
without adverb:
"I don't know," she stuttered as she fidgeted with the button on her coat.
This aloows the story to flow better and not be clunky.
Use them for flavoring
Fix weak story elements by strengthening them, not by attaching adverbs to try to pump up the emotional impact or action.