Expert: Kaylyn Anderson - 4/21/2008

Question
When writing a document that contains a bullet list should commas be used after each item.  For example, assuming the "-" is a bullet which of the two samples below would be correct?  

Our zoo contains many animals such as:
    -Lions,
    -Tigers,
    -Bears,
    -Elephants

Our zoo contains many animals such as:
    -Lions
    -Tigers
    -Bears
    -Elephants

Does the answer change if this is in a technical document rather than a non-technical document?

Thanks,

Don

Answer
Dear Don,
Thank you for writing to AllExperts. Both ways can be correct in technical writing. Do not forget, however, to add "and" if you use the comma list.

Normally, bulleted lists do not use a comma. I used both methods in tech docs; it all depends on the style guide used. Remember, in tech-docs either the customer's requirement or your company's style guide reigns. Do not use commas in academic writing.

Sincerely,
Kaylyn