Realize it is the abbreviation for the Latin "et cetera", meaning "and so forth". You can use it after a series, but do not say "and etc." And do not use it carelessly, that is, too much.

Et cetera [et 'setərə] is a Latin expression that means "and other things", or "and so forth". It's often used when you list something. For example: "There were a lot of different people: lawyers, artists, students, etc." For more information, watch the article at wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Et_cetera

It's from the Latin "et cetera" and it basically means "and so on". For example: I like fish, cats, monkeys, etc. I can make bags, hats, socks, et cetera. The fruit stand sells bananas, oranges, apples, etc.