Comma with Spelled-Out Enumerations (First, Second, Third)
The Comma
Rulebase Summary
Use a comma to introduce the first spelled-out enumeration after the verb, and a comma after all subsequent spelled-out enumerations in the same sentence. The enumeration word is followed by a comma, and a semicolon separates each enumerated item.
Examples
A. There were three reasons: first I was not notified; second I had no access to the building; third I was out of state.
A. There were three reasons: first, I was not notified; second, I had no access to the building; third, I was out of state.
Comma after each spelled-out enumeration word.
A. There were three issues. First the contract. Second the timeline. Third the budget.
A. There were three issues. First, the contract. Second, the timeline. Third, the budget.
Comma after spelled-out enumeration words.
Style Guide References (1)
Morson's