I say that you must observe the proper rules of grammar as described by Strunk and White, as detailed by the Chicago Manual of Style. All the grammar in your resume must be flush.
Conversely, if you're applying to a publishing house or a specific periodical, you shoudl tailor your resume to reflect the house's style. Conde Nast properties fluctuate in this regard; Allure prefers the comma preceding the 'and', but others do not. It's tricky. Pay attention.
Yeah, the vocal intonation makes me feel better about the comma. I've just been rampantly not seeing it and then having been corrected lately makes me think twice too.
I also really like the idea of the "descriptive grammarian" as put forth in the article. It helps remind me that language is evolving and changing all the time and "rules" restrict that evolution. I like the idea of being descriptive as opposed to prescriptive. Does away with all the "should."
Ah, the comma!netzardNovember 7 2007, 02:00:41 UTC
For me, the comma is a personal joy. In many cases, a sentence can be shortened, broken up, or rewritten to be comma-less. Where, I ask you, is the joy in that? Style indeed, I say.
Construct your sentences according to the rules of grammar that you have learned, as well as appropriate resources for grammatical correctness, such as Strunk and White, OED, and your favorite English teacher of old.
The goal of any written communication should always be clarity first, then beauty, and finally, pithiness. If you really doubt your usage, however, check in with Malderor. He reigns supreme among us as the master of the written word.
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Conversely, if you're applying to a publishing house or a specific periodical, you shoudl tailor your resume to reflect the house's style. Conde Nast properties fluctuate in this regard; Allure prefers the comma preceding the 'and', but others do not. It's tricky. Pay attention.
Good luck!
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I also really like the idea of the "descriptive grammarian" as put forth in the article. It helps remind me that language is evolving and changing all the time and "rules" restrict that evolution. I like the idea of being descriptive as opposed to prescriptive. Does away with all the "should."
Reply
(The comment has been removed)
Construct your sentences according to the rules of grammar that you have learned, as well as appropriate resources for grammatical correctness, such as Strunk and White, OED, and your favorite English teacher of old.
The goal of any written communication should always be clarity first, then beauty, and finally, pithiness. If you really doubt your usage, however, check in with Malderor. He reigns supreme among us as the master of the written word.
Reply
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