An improved method for the transformation of keto acids into cyclic α-hydroxy ketones, induced by the electrochemical generation of a novel acyl anion equivalent from the carboxy group, has been developed. Both five- and six-membered rings were constructed by constant-current electrolysis of δ- and ε-keto acids in the presence of Bu₃P using an undivided cell equipped with a graphite anode and a Pt cathode. Attempts to prepare four- and seven-membered ring carbocycles were unsuccessful. The electrochemical reaction was found to be highly stereoselective when cyclization took place onto cyclopentanone and substituted cyclohexanone rings. Stereochemical aspects of the formation of bicyclic products, especially those having a bicyclo[4.3.0]skeleton, are discussed.