Perhaps the only thing more wonderful than getting a new book is when that new book is an AP Stylebook. As much as I enjoy getting my new Stylebook each year, I don't always love the changed entries. The over/under change in 2014, for example, sent me into a tizzy. It also seems like we just get used to a rule and it changes. This year's … [Read more...]
June Means AP Stylebook Changes
Just when we think we grasp more AP Style than we’re confused by, the Associated Press goes and changes it. Perhaps they’re just trying to make sure we’re paying attention? The Associated Press made their annual announcement of changes to the 2016 AP Stylebook at the annual ACES conference. The changes include the adoption of 250 new or … [Read more...]
The AP Releases Expanded 2015 Stylebook
It's like Christmas for nerds, only in May. The 2015 AP Stylebook was released today. Ok, I didn't mean the whole rhyming thing, but it really is a great day! The Stylebook contains 300 new or revised entries, which is The AP's way of making sure we're always learning. Just when we think we know what's in the Stylebook, they change … [Read more...]
Nerd Note: AP Changes Style for State Names in Stories
My future students are rejoicing while my past students are groaning. Gone are the days when they will be forced to take multiple quizzes to help them remember how the Associated Press abbreviates state names in stories. The abbreviations, which are different from postal abbreviations, have caused my students trouble for years, resulting in … [Read more...]
Nerd Note: Selfies Just Got Real
We claim to hate selfies, but almost all of us have taken at least one. See? Selfies may be just a fad, but the Associated Press isn't taking any chances on journalists using the term incorrectly while the concept lasts. The Associated Press added selfie to its stylebook. AP Style tip: New to the Stylebook: selfie – a … [Read more...]
Why Learn AP Style?
There is comfort in consistency. It's good for your readers, your editors and for you. The Associated Press, the world's oldest news service, began creating the formal version of its Stylebook in 1953. It did so in the name of consistency although, prior to that, many AP Style rules served more practical purposes, like moving copy across the … [Read more...]
Why I’m Against the New AP Style Program
Students have called me the "AP Style Nazi." I don't think they mean it as a loving, cute nickname, but I'm pretty proud of it. Associated Press Style is one of the few things I wished I knew better when I graduated from j-school. Knowing and using the professional format of all media writing means cleaner copy. Error-free (or close) copy … [Read more...]