Question

Are the commas placed correctly in (A) or (B)?

(A) The reason is often that the interviewer wants an overview, or opening statement summarizing how your skills, experiences and background are a good fit for the internship.

(B) The reason is often that the interviewer wants an overview, or opening statement summarizing how your skills, experiences, and background are a good fit for the internship.

I think (B) is correct.

Likewise, which is correct?

(C) John buys apples, oranges, pears and grapes.
(D) John buys apples, oranges, pears, and grapes.

I think (D) is correct.

Thank you for your assistance!

Answer 1

I don't think either A or B is correct. A is certainly incorrect; B could be correct if the first comma (the one before "or") were not there.

Yes, D is correct.

Answer 2

All of those examples are correct. The comma before the "and" is known as the oxford comma. Some style books prefer it; some don't. Unless you're writing for a publication of teacher that has expressed a preference, the choice is up to the writer.

https://www.grammarly.com/blog/what-is-the-oxford-comma-and-why-do-people-care-so-much-about-it/

Answer 3

I know what Ms. Sue is saying is right. It depends on your teacher and/or on the style guide you are to follow.

There's a company in Maine, however, that learned the hard way how costly it can be if the Oxford comma is omitted!
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/think-commas-don-t-matter-omitting-one-cost-maine-dairy-n847151

Answer 4

Wow! Who knew that the oxford comma was so important?
But I have a sweatshirt that says,
"Let's eat, Grandma.
Let's eat Grandma.
Commas save lives"

Answer 5

Excellent!!