When it comes to writing in the AP style, precision and clarity are key. The Associated Press Stylebook is the definitive resource for journalists, writers, and editors, providing guidelines to ensure consistency and accuracy in news writing. Here are five essential AP style tips to enhance your writing:
1. Dates and Times
- Month and Day: When referring to dates, AP style recommends using the month and day (e.g., Feb. 22) rather than the day and month (22 February).
- Time of Day: Use figures for time of day (e.g., 1 p.m., 3:30 a.m.), with periods and without a space between the number and the abbreviation (a.m. or p.m.). It’s also worth noting that noon and midnight should be spelled out in all instances.
- Years: Years are always expressed in four digits (e.g., 2023), but when referring to decades, AP style suggests using the ’s (e.g., the 1990s).
2. Abbreviations and Acronyms
- Use Sparingly: Introduce an abbreviation or acronym only when it is subsequently used in the story. For organizations or entities well-known by their acronym, such as NASA or FBI, no introduction is necessary.
- Spell It Out: Upon first reference, spell out the full name of an organization or entity (e.g., the National Basketball Association), followed by the abbreviation in parentheses (NBA), if the abbreviation will be used later in the story.
- Use Consistently: Once an abbreviation or acronym is introduced, use it consistently throughout the piece unless it’s part of a formal title or name.
3. State Names
- In Stories: When referring to states in the body of a story, spell out the names of the 48 contiguous states (e.g., California, Montana). However, the AP style suggests using the traditional state abbreviations for the following eight states when they stand alone in datelines: Alaska (Alaska), Hawaii (Hawaii), Idaho (Idaho), Iowa (Iowa), Maine (Maine), Ohio (Ohio), Texas (Texas), and Utah (Utah).
- In Datelines: Always use the state abbreviations in datelines (e.g., LAS VEGAS, Nev.).
4. Job Titles
- Capitalize: Capitalize formal titles before a name (e.g., President Joe Biden), but use lowercase for titles after a name or when they are used as descriptions (e.g., economist Jane Smith or the economist).
- Avoid Redundancy: Don’t use both a person’s title and their job description unless it’s essential for clarity (e.g., Dr. Jane Smith, a physician).
5. Numbers
- General Rule: Spell out numbers from one to nine and use figures for 10 and above. However, there are exceptions, such as when refering to ages, which should always be in figures (e.g., The boy, 10, was at the park.).
- Percentages: Use the % sign when paired with a numeral, with a space between the number and the symbol (e.g., 4 %). However, in headlines where space is a concern, it’s acceptable to use “percent” spelled out.
- Dimensions and Measurements: When describing sizes, use figures and the appropriate unit (e.g., 5 feet 6 inches, 3 ounces).
By adhering to these guidelines, writers can ensure their work is not only clear and concise but also consistent with the standards of professional journalism, thereby enhancing credibility and readability. Remember, AP style is a tool to facilitate effective communication; its nuances and guidelines serve to make writing more accessible and understandable to a broad audience.
