Mastering AP Style: Insights from an Editor

Today we’re joined by Frances Gong, vice president at EvClay Public Relations, who will share a few insights on editing and the importance of AP style in news writing. Over the years, we’ve become quite passionate about the details that can make or break a piece of writing. Let’s dive into three areas where questions arise when editing: capitalization of titles, spelling out numerals and the use of the Oxford comma. Capitalization of Titles

When it comes to titles, when to capitalize depends on the placement in a sentence. According to the AP Stylebook, formal titles should be capitalized immediately before a name. They are lowercased when used alone or after a name set off by commas. For example, “Frances Gong, vice president at EvClay Public Relations” is correct, while “Vice President Frances Gong” is also accurate. But, if a client prefers that those titles be capitalized in every instance, we follow their preference.

Numbers: A Simple Rule

Another aspect she focuses on is the treatment of numbers. In general, numbers one through nine should be spelled out, while numbers 10 and above can be written in numeral form in almost all uses, except at the start of a sentence. For instance, you would write “three clients” but “15 projects.” Knowing when to spell numbers can make your writing clearer and more professional.

The Oxford Comma: To Use or Not to Use?

The Oxford comma often sparks debate among writers. In AP style, it is typically not used. The reasoning behind this is that clarity is the primary goal. If a comma does not enhance the clarity of a sentence, it should be omitted. However, if leaving out a comma could lead to confusion, it’s best to include it.

Our Philosophy Behind Effective Writing

Our founder, Ev Clay, had a saying: “Keep it right, keep it tight and keep it bright.” This principle has guided us for over 85 years and reminds us of the importance of accuracy, an economy of words and a bit of ‘sparkle’ in our communication. Using AP style is not merely a guideline; it can ensure that journalists appreciate the clarity and professionalism of our work.

Why AP Style Matters

AP style is crucial for several reasons.

- It standardizes writing across the industry, making it easier for journalists to understand and interpret information.

- Consistency in AP style helps maintain a professional tone that audiences expect from reputable sources.

- Enhances the credibility of your writing, making it more likely to be taken seriously.

Practical Tips for Writers

Now that we’ve covered the basics, here are some practical tips for writers looking to improve their adherence to AP style:

●    Keep a copy of the AP Stylebook handy: A physical or digital copy will allow you to check rules as you write quickly.

●    Practice regularly: The more you write with AP style in mind, the more intuitive it will become.

●    Review your work: Always proofread your writing to catch any inconsistencies with AP style.

●    Stay updated: AP style evolves, so make sure you’re aware of any changes or updates to the guidelines.

Conclusion: The Art of Editing

In conclusion, mastering AP style is essential for public relations professionals. But knowing when to capitalize titles, write numbers and decide if the Oxford comma will be used is only the beginning. Clarity is the goal. So maybe Ev’s saying may just be the mantra to remember: “Keep it right, keep it tight and keep it bright.”   

We hope these insights on AP style were helpful!

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