Note: Some writers omit the comma before and in a series. If you omit the final comma before and, do so consistently in your writing. EXERCISE 14 Using commas to separate independent clauses and items in a series Read the sentences. Add commas to separate independent clauses and items in a series.

1 Jack his brother and I are going hiking and fishing this weekend.

2 We had wanted to go to the beach but we couldn't get hotel accommodations.

3 We decided to go to the mountains instead and enjoy the cooler weather.

4 We'll probably hike for a few days and then we'll relax by fishing at the local lake.

5 We'll take food sleeping bags a few changes of clothes but little else.

6 Would you like to come along or are you busy this weekend?

Follow-up Write two sentences illustrating Guideline 3 and two illustrating Guideline 4. Write about a recent vacation.

Guideline 5​