Addresses are an inescapable part of reporting and writing. You must write the official address with any business name you ever use. You also frequently must refer to general locations. So, it’s important that you know how to write addresses correctly.
Here are a few Associated Press style rules to use when writing addresses:
Use abbreviations (sometimes)
Use the abbreviations Ave., Blvd. and St. only with a numbered address. For example, Oklahoma City University is at 2501 N. Blackwelder Ave.
Spell these words out if they are part of a formal street name without a number. For example, The restaurant is on Boulevard.
Lowercase and spell them out if they are used alone or with more than one street name. For example, The school is at Pennsylvania and Bright avenues.
These are the only location-type names that fit these rules. All others (alley, drive, road, etc.) are spelled out. They are capitalized only when they are part of the formal address.
Use numbers
Always use figures for an address number. For example, The house is at 900 Chase Drive.
Spell out and capitalize numerals lower than 10 when used as street names. Use figures for 10 and above. For example, The team will meet at 604 Ninth Street. They will travel to 801 10th Ave.
Be directional
Abbreviate directions when they’re included in a formal address. For example, The store is at 501 E. Main.
Addresses are such a frequent part of writing that it’s important you quickly learn how to use them properly.
Now go forth and use words correctly!
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