APStylebook.com Ask the Editor

ask the editor Ask the Editor

Have a question about something not included in the AP Stylebook or a fine point? Please review the questions below. If you can't find what you're looking for, Search the System -- your question may already be answered in the AP Stylebook. Online subscribers can submit questions to "Ask the Editor" which will be reviewed by AP editor David Minthorn. To purchase a book or online subscription, please visit APBookstore.com, or return to APStylebook.com.


search Search

Can't find what you're looking for? Search the Ask the Editor system:


Question and Editor Response
My aging AP print stylebook has a "pom-pom, pompon" entry in it, but I don't find it in the online stylebook. Does AP have a preference for the name of the fluffy ball of crepe paper or plastic waved by cheerleaders? – from Atlanta, GA on Tue, Jan 06, 2009
It's pompom (sometimes spelled pompon) for the cheerleading version.
Hello AP, could you please advise us whether we should use "to" or "of" following "Apropos?" Many thanks. "Apropos to the drop-off in worldwide export demand, the administration’s farsighted approach to supporting local companies through this period of uncertainty is inspired by ... " – from Taipei on Tue, Jan 06, 2009
apropos of, meaning with regard to.
In our paper, for a byline, we sometimes list a person's title after their name, such as: Karen Martinez, Attorney at Law. Would you capitalize the title, or should you even use the title? – from Denver on Tue, Jan 06, 2009
AP wouldn't cap a title set off by comma. In bylines for non-staffers, By Karen Martinez, followed on a separate line, For The Associated Press. At the end of the story, an EDITOR'S NOTE specifying the writer's background or expertise.
We reported on an accident in which a woman who was several months pregnant died and so did the unborn child. We went with 'fetus' but the question came up of proper usage. Should it be 'fetus' until born, 'unborn child,' or is there another locution? Thanks. – from Escondido, CA on Mon, Jan 05, 2009
Human fetus describes eighth week of development to birth. Unborn child usually refers to a late-stage fetus that could survive outside the womb if born prematurely.
Would someone be a "Eucharistic minister" or, as I suspect, a "eucharistic minister"? – from Hyannis, MA on Mon, Jan 05, 2009
Eucharistic minister in AP stories.
Newsblogs or news blogs? Thanks. – from El Cajon, CA on Mon, Jan 05, 2009
two words
Which is correct: "ongoing" or "on-going?" I believe it's the first. Thanks! – from Chicago, IL on Mon, Jan 05, 2009
The first, per Webster's.
Is "tailored" a good word to use as compared to 'customized' while writing a report in US English, as in: ABC Company provides a variety of services tailored to the needs of military transferees. – from Omaha, Neb. on Sat, Jan 03, 2009
tailored works fine here.
Nunchuck or nunchaku? – from Fargo, ND on Sat, Jan 03, 2009
Both words are used in U.S. for the Asian martial arts weapon. Nunchaku is the Japanese term and probably more authentic.
Which is a better way to write: "ABC designs signage" OR "ABC designs sign materials"...? thanks. – from Omaha, Neb. on Sat, Jan 03, 2009
The first is fine.
Merriam-Webster (Collegiate, which we use b'c online access is so handy) has "story line," but our assigning editors almost always use "storyline." Does AP have a preference, official or otherwise? Thanx. – from Bristol, CT on Sat, Jan 03, 2009
AP uses story line (two words), same as Webster's spelling.
Regarding the bird: Is it Vaux swifts, Vaux's swifts or something else? – from Eugene , OR on Sat, Jan 03, 2009
Vaux's swifts
are periods required in adress abreviation such as RD. ST. – on Sat, Jan 03, 2009
AP does not abbreviate road. Street is abbreviated St. only with a numbered address. See "addresses" entry.
How should I refer to fiscal year in an annual report? On first use is it Fiscal Year 2008 and then all following instances would be FY08? Is that acceptable? – from Indianapolis, IN on Sun, Jan 04, 2009
It's fiscal year 2008 (lowercase), the year thereafter. The abbreviation FY08 could be used in a direct quote or in a graphic.
Do we write "help desk" and "help line" as two words or one word? – from Gurgaon India on Sat, Jan 03, 2009
two words in both cases.
"Pre-disposal" or "predisposal"? Thanks. – from Portland, Ore. on Sat, Jan 03, 2009
one word
Would it be "the ever more elusive job" or "the ever-more elusive job?" Thanks – on Sat, Jan 03, 2009
no hyphen
When talking about text messaging, can the word message be used as a verb as in the sentence, "They are going to message me later". – from Gold Coast, Queensland on Sat, Jan 03, 2009
correct.
What is the correct capitalization and punctuation for an abbreviated term such as p-card, short for purchasing card or procurement card? I have found a number of preferences by various businesses and industry groups, including p-card, P-card,P-Card and PCard. Is there a rule that applies to shortening terms like this? – from Orlando, FL on Sat, Jan 03, 2009
AP uses P-card on second reference for purchasing card.
Our question is about use of the term 'magnitude' in regard to earthquakes. If a quake is referred to as "the magnitude 6.5 quake," is there a hyphen after magnitude? The 2005 Stylebook did have an example under "earthquake" of such a usage (re the Kobe earthquake, and there was no hyphen) but this has been rewritten around the question in your online guide. And are we missing a bigger, broa – from Escondido, CA on Sat, Jan 03, 2009
no hyphen with magnitude in references to earthquakes.
Smith's field goal early in the fourth quarter turned out to be the gamewinner. Gamewinner ... one word or two, hyphenated or not? – from Atlanta, GA on Sat, Jan 03, 2009
AP sports stories favor game-winner (hyphenated).
Is it "A mix of services meets all your needs," or "A mix of services meet all your needs?" And can you tell me why one is correct and the other isn't? Thanks. – from Milwaukee on Sun, Jan 04, 2009
The first is correct. See "collective nouns" entry.
How should this be referenced? "...to do rosarios cantados de Reyes or rosary prayers..." or "...to do (rosarios cantados de Reyes) rosary prayers..." – from Scranton, PA on Sat, Jan 03, 2009
"... to do rosarios cantados de Reyes, or rosary prayers ..."
Should "ended" or "ending" be used in the following sentence-- "Gross billings through the 10-month interim period ended October 31, 2008 approximated $4.92 million" or, Gross billings through the 10-month interim period ending October 31, 2008 approximated $4.92 million. Thanks! – from chicago, IL on Sat, Jan 03, 2009
AP earnings reports tend to use "ended." And in AP style, the date should be Oct. 31, 2008, ...
Numeral, or is the number written out in the sentence below? The sport is football, but I read that AP uses the numeral when reporting basketball scoring, as in "Jones scored 8 points." Does it apply the same principle to teams (as opposed to individuals) and other sports, such as football? Georgia pulled within four/4 points heading into the fourth quarter. – from Atlanta, GA on Sat, Jan 03, 2009
In these uses, AP spells out scoring under 10: eight points, four points.
What is the AP style for the often-used conjunction "and/or?" Shallwe use simply "or?" – on Sat, Jan 03, 2009
Two in a row about and/or. Is it ESP? The clunky "and-or" can usually be replaced by "or" for a simple comparison, "or both" if the comparison is more detailed.
Is the term "and/or" acceptable? – from Walker, MN on Tue, Dec 23, 2008
Not in news writing.
Should compound compass directions be expressed as compound modifiers, or hyphenated or independent adjectives? For example, I live in (northcentral, north-central or north central) Minnesota. – from Longville, MN on Tue, Dec 23, 2008
Some are normally hyphenated, others combined: I live in north-central Minnesota. She lives in southwestern Iowa.
Transfats? Trans fats? Trans-fats? – from Lancaster on Tue, Dec 23, 2008
one word.
Recently in AP copy I am seeing more and more of "23-year-old John Smith, his cousin 15-year-old Frank Brown ..." rather than "John Smith, 23%3B his cousin, Frank Brown, 15 ..." Is this a new fad, putting the age before a name? It just takes up more space. – from Washington, D.C. on Tue, Dec 23, 2008
This device shouldn't be overused. Age in apposition to the name is preferable in most instances.
Is the word "ultrathin" hyphenated when it acts as a modifier in "ultrathin phone?" – from NC on Mon, Dec 22, 2008
no hyphen
Is there a general format for a press release? – from denver, colorado on Mon, Dec 22, 2008
AP doesn't issue guidelines on formatting press releases. Have a look at publicity services, such as PR Newswire: http://www.prnewswire.com/
All Points Bulletin, all points bulletin or all-points bulletin? – from Fargo, ND on Fri, Dec 19, 2008
all-points bulletin
In a caption, are all words capitalized? – from salt lake city, utah on Fri, Dec 19, 2008
Normal capitalization applies.
I work for a planning firm and we typically show clients a list of "Deliverables". Those might be Conceptual Design Standards, Street Sections, Master Plans. Because they are the title of a report, are they capitalized? – from salt lake city, utah on Fri, Dec 19, 2008
The terms wouldn't be capitalized in a news story, but in your report context the titles would be up.
Web support or Websupport or Web Support – on Fri, Dec 19, 2008
Web support
What is the best compound word to use to describe that which is the opposite of snobby: Non-snobby, nonsnobby, un-snobby, unsnobby, etc. Thanks. – from Bowling Green, KY on Thu, Dec 18, 2008
unpretentious, down-to-earth, natural
In the sentence "His only source of income was from Social Security Disabilty," I believe Social Security should be capitalized since it refers to the U.S. system. Does the word disabilty need capitalization or lowercase when used in sentence like the example given? – from Fort Worth on Thu, Dec 18, 2008
His only source of income was from Social Security disability payments.
The mob or the Mob? – from Fargo, ND on Thu, Dec 18, 2008
lowercase
Is the name of an orchestral concert surrounded by quotations, italicized, or simply capitalized? For example, an orchestra is playing several pieces and the name of the collective offering for the evening is Love and War. Does this same rule apply to other event names describing parades, displays, etc.? – from Bowling Green, KY on Wed, Dec 17, 2008
Capitalize and enclose in quotes the title of the concert. See "music" entry for details. AP doesn't italicize words in news stories. Italics are used in Stylebook entries to highlight examples of correct and incorrect usage. See "italics" entry.
A rule I heard in school was don't cap after a hyphen in composition titles if the prefix cannot stand on its own as a word (e.g., "Anti-submarine Warfare") and vise versa ("Big-Time Burgers!"). Searching this database produced conflicting responses. Is this rule correct? – from Tucson, Ariz. on Thu, Dec 18, 2008
See "composition titles" entry covering books, etc. In your first example, all three segments are capped.
How would 200,000 square foot ballroom be written? 200,000 square-foot ballroom or 200,000-square-foot ballroom – from Tallahassee, FL on Wed, Dec 17, 2008
200,000-square-foot ballroom
For non-dateline cities, would you eliminate the state abbreviations on second/subsequent references in a story? – from Erie, Pa. on Wed, Dec 17, 2008
yes, use city, state, on first reference, then city alone thereafter. An exception (admittedly rare) would be if places in a story have the same name, requiring state reference(s) to avoid confusion.
When do you capitalize annual report? for example, in "For more information about XYZ, and to read the annual report, visit www...." And in a previous sentence, "...recently released its Annual Report for Fiscal Year 2008." Thank you. – from Iowa on Wed, Dec 17, 2008
In first instance, lowercase annual report. In second instance, it might be capitalized as a title in an internal company document or news release. However, AP would lowercase and make it 2008 annual report if citing in a news story.
please help hyphenate the following sentence that describes a piece of hardware that can be mounted into a rack: "The hardware includes a rack mounting kit." or "The hardware includes a rack-mounting kit." thanks! – from LA, CA on Wed, Dec 17, 2008
rack-mounting kit looks right.
In quoted material, do we spell out number one or use No. 1? "He said the No. 1 problem was grease." "He said the number one problem was grease." – on Wed, Dec 17, 2008
Use No. 1 in a quote. See the abbreviation examples in "quotations in the news" entry.
In a news release headline, must you abbreviate a state name: "Mayor of the City of Lafayette, Colorado orders cutbacks" Also, should I eliminate City? THanks for your help – from Milwaukee, Wis on Tue, Dec 16, 2008
Mayor of Lafayette, Colo., orders cutbacks
For a story about a race car driver, would the category funny car be capitalized or lowercase? Thanks, Paula Selleck – from Fullerton, Calif. on Tue, Dec 16, 2008
Funny Car is capitalized in the context of NHRA events.
What is your preferred style of indicating the Ivory Coast, considering the recent request to refer to it as the Republic of Cote d'Ivoire? I think it's still fine to refer to it as "the Ivory Coast." – from Louisville, KY on Tue, Dec 16, 2008
AP spelling is Ivory Coast.
Should the restaurant disclaimer "dine in only" be hyphenated? "Dine-in only" or "dine in only"? Thank you. – from Troy, Michigan on Tue, Dec 16, 2008
no hyphens in dine in, dine out.
Is it: "the number one market leader in North America" or "the #1 market leader in North America" – from Durham, North Carolina on Tue, Dec 16, 2008
the No. 1 market ...
I need to edit this.. The mournful sound of taps wafted over Calvary Cemetery in Lewistown. PA on Monday as family, friends and thousands of law enforcement officers paid their respects to state trooper, Timothy Bowe, gunned down last weekend in rural Chisago County. “I’ve played at every officers’ funeral said Kevin Torgerson, an Edgerton County sheriff’s deputy. “It’s very tough It takes a – from Rome on Mon, Dec 15, 2008
The mournful sound of taps wafted over Calvary Cemetery in Lewistown, Pa., on Monday as family, friends and thousands of law enforcement officers paid their respects to state trooper Timothy Bowe, gunned down last weekend in rural Chisago County. %u201CI%u2019ve played at every officer's funeral said Kevin Torgerson, an Edgerton County sheriff%u2019s deputy. %u201CIt%u2019s very tough. It takes a ...
In writing about the television series, should it be "MASH" or "M*A*S*H"? – from Houston, TX on Mon, Dec 15, 2008
"M.A.S.H."
Your District of Columbia listing says: Abbreviate as D.C. in datelines or stories. But it seems odd to read in a story the following: ". . . regarding 20 states and D.C., where such issues are regulated at a local level." Do you mean to say to abbreviate it after Washington? Or in all cases? – from Seattle, WA on Mon, Dec 15, 2008
Strictly speaking, references to the nation's capital in stories should be written Washington, D.C.
I see that AP recommends that "department of history" would be lowercase. How about school of physical education if it's first reference and not part of a full formal name? – from Atlanta, GA on Mon, Dec 15, 2008
lowercase.
Should Emergency Department be abbreviated as ED or E.D. (with periods)? I say E.D., since it could be read as "Ed," but the stylebook says Emergency Room is ER. – from Philadelphia, Pa. on Mon, Dec 15, 2008
AP uses emergency department on first reference, the department thereafter. The abbreviation might be taken as a a reference to education or an editor. In contrast, ER is widely used.
Re: Is the second comma in this sentence placed properly? "Her crackling voice, which sounds a lot like Marge Simpson's sisters', makes her one of the most memorable characters." But what if we're talking about ALL of her sisters and not just one? – from Erie, Pa. on Fri, Dec 12, 2008
... Marge Simpson's sisters, ....
It looks like AP style is to not initial-cap "individual retirement account." A quick google, however, suggests that AP does initial-cap "Coverdell Education Savings Account." Do I have that right on both counts? (And if yes, why?) Thanks. – from Des Moines, IA on Fri, Dec 12, 2008
Correct. Coverdell is a proper noun, honoring the late Sen. Paul Douglas Coverdell.
Is the second comma in this sentence placed properly? "Her crackling voice, which sounds a lot like Marge Simpson's sisters', makes her one of the most memorable characters." – from Erie, Pa. on Fri, Dec 12, 2008
... Marge Simpson's sister, makes ... (second possessive unneeded. voice to voice comparison is understood.)
What is your suggestion on the use of CO2 for carbon dioxide? – from Indianapolis on Fri, Dec 12, 2008
CO2 is widely used in AP stories on second reference to carbon dioxide.
Written Correctly? "He voted for Nader because of the versatility of his ideas, because of his dedication to improving the environment, because his tax plan was fair." – from VT on Fri, Dec 12, 2008
... because of his versatile ideas, his dedication to improving the environment and his fair plan for taxes.
If it's not correct to place an acronym in parenthesis immediately after the title or organization it abbreviates, how should the acronym be connected? I'm writing a technical document where the acronym will be used throughout, but is not necessarily immediately recognizable if not connected to the original reference the first time. – from Bellevue, NE on Thu, Dec 11, 2008
You could use the acronym in a sentence immediately following the full name of the organization.
Should scientific names be initial capped or lowercased? For example, Fusarium Graminearum or fusarium graminearum? – from Winston-Salem, NC on Thu, Dec 11, 2008
See "genus, species" entry. In brief, cap first name, lowercase second.
"...within seven to 10 business days..." Is it correct as written? Or should it be 7 to 10 or 7-10? – from Austin, TX on Thu, Dec 11, 2008
the quoted example is correct.
Hello. I'm trying to get clarification on the correct usage...is it "near Earth object" or "near-Earth object"? Hyphen or no? (Webster's does not use a hyphen for "low Earth orbit," which is somewhat similar.) Thanks! – from Washington on Wed, Dec 10, 2008
NASA Web site refers to near-Earth object testimony and also headlines Near Earth Object Program. Hyphenated as a compound modifier or left unlinked as a noun phrase, both usages are fine.
For sentence structure: Admission charged. OR Admission IS charged. No admission charged. VS. No admission is charged. – from CT on Wed, Dec 10, 2008
In formal writing, use the helping verb. An ad or sign, probably not needed.
In the addresses entry, it specifies to lowercase avenues, etc. when used as part with more than one street name. Is this true in a formal address line? We use a listing format, so the address line is separated in our text. It would be: 19 Smith and 21 Jones Avenues, or should avenues be lowercased? – from Norwalk, CT on Wed, Dec 10, 2008
Doesn't sound like a news story format, which is covered by the "addresses" entry.
Is there a French-English dictionary that A.P. recommends? – from Des Moines, IA on Wed, Dec 10, 2008
There are many fine dictionaries. You can't go wrong with any of them.
1950s Dodge wagon or 1950's Dodge wagon? – from Half Moon Bay, Calif. on Wed, Dec 10, 2008
the first.
I'm confused about capitalization of animal species. I see that breeds are normally lowercase, but is it Ankole-Watusi cattle (as I seem to see everywhere) even though there doesn't seem to be a common noun derivation? Is the antelope a blue duiker? Do I write about a southern white rhino? – from Half Moon Bay, Calif on Wed, Dec 10, 2008
The Ankole-Watusi breed derives from tribal names in South Africa and is capitalized. Per "animals" entry, the others are lowercase based on Webster's spellings and lack of proper noun derivations.
224,996 pounds of food were/was donated to the food bank...? – on Tue, Dec 09, 2008
plural
I wanted to know if $2MM is an acceptable abbreviation for $2 million. I had always thought it was $2M (with one M) but there was some debate in the office. Thanks! – from Kansas on Tue, Dec 09, 2008
AP headlines use $2M (one M).
Please solve dispute. What is AP's stance on the use of dictionary.com? I'm under the impression it's a hodge-podge dictionary not fit for reference, but my co-worker says it's the same as Webster's. What's your take? – on Tue, Dec 09, 2008
We normally link to yourdictionary.com, which uses Webster's New World College Dictionary definitions.
Regarding the NCAA divisions question: AP stories tend to use Roman numbers. Division I-A. Division I-AA. Division II. Division III. Or has there been a change? – from Denver on Mon, Dec 08, 2008
No change. Roman numerals are correct.
Hi...I see that your questions cover style regarding year ranges, e.g., 2003-04 or 2003-2004. But I cannot find the style rule in my online style guide. Under what keyword can it be found? – from Los Angeles, CA on Tue, Dec 09, 2008
It's not a stylebook entry but both are used in AP stories.
"Why is the word Internet capitalized?" – from Keizer, OR on Mon, Dec 08, 2008
Internet is capitalized as the proper name for the worldwide system of computers that can communicate with each other.
Should the NCAA division be listed as 1-A or 1A? I am seeing it both ways. Thanks! – from Houston, Texas on Mon, Dec 08, 2008
Division 1-A (hyphenate)
I see that king, coho and sockeye salmon are not capitalized according to AP style, but what about Chinook? Should that variety be capitalized, perhaps because of Chinook tribal association? – from Eugene OR on Mon, Dec 08, 2008
lowercase chinook salmon.
In making references to the "Internet generation" (reportedly, the demographic born between 1978 and 1994), some refer to this group, in subsequent references, as "Net geners." How would we write that? With an apostrophe, as in 'Net gener? Or 'Net gen-er? Or, the way it appears in some publications, as Net Geners? – from Lancaster, PA on Mon, Dec 08, 2008
probably Net Gener, though the "g" could be lowercase. AP uses Net (cap-N), so that's my guide. The term doesn't show in AP stories of recent years.
What would be the proper capitalization for "level-one trauma center." Would a number be used in lieu of "one?" – from Rochester, MN on Mon, Dec 08, 2008
as a generic term, it's correctly written with one.
Would false positive be hyphenated in the following scenario (or ever)? "There is a chance of a false positive result." Thanks! – from Evanston, IL on Mon, Dec 08, 2008
no hyphen and I can't think of any exception.
We're making buttons for the upcoming MLK commemoration. The text reads: What Becomes of the Dream? Is this grammatically correct? Thanks. – from Durham nc on Mon, Dec 08, 2008
"becomes of" may be grammatically correct but it's a little awkward.
Is "affect" used as a noun or a verb in the sentence "There was no migration of needles or affect on the structural integrity of the pins"? I can't decide whether to use "effect" instead. thank you – from Memphis, TN on Mon, Dec 08, 2008
See "affect, effect" entry.
Periods or no periods on MBA and other three-letter academic degree abbreviations? A search of Ask the Editor reveals: your response on Jun 07, 2006 says nothing about whether B.S.N., MBA and MSW, both written by the submitter, can logically coexist. All three stand for degrees, have individual letters pronounced and stand for three distinct words. On Dec. 19 2006, your response indicated it was M – from Tempe, Ariz. on Mon, Dec 08, 2008
The preference is to write out the degree and specialty: bachelor's in nursing, master's in social work. MBA (no periods) is a widely used abbreviation but should be defined in the story. See "academic degrees" for guidance.
The AP entry for National Guard uses both "the Guard" and "the guard." Which is preferred? – from Norfolk, VA on Mon, Dec 08, 2008
The Guard (cap-G) on first reference to a specific force. The guard (lowercase g) on subsequence references.
Druids or druids? Dictionary says druids. – from Fargo, ND on Fri, Dec 05, 2008
lowercase "d"
Hi! When referring to a person that owns a second home, would it be second home owner, second homeowner? The latter seems confusing. Thanks! – from Palm Beach, Fla. on Fri, Dec 05, 2008
Usually written second-home owner.
Is well-being always hyphenated? – on Fri, Dec 05, 2008
Far as I know.
Can the words 'crack down' be used? as in "China's ruling leaders said the crack down...." – from atlanta on Fri, Dec 05, 2008
crackdown (n.) in Webster's.
Is "councilman/woman" preferred over "council member" when used in conjunction with an individual's name and referring to a City Council? – from Erie, Pa. on Fri, Dec 05, 2008
All three are in usage. Local preference could dictate the title to use and whether to cap it or not.
Is this correct according to AP style? The program is designed for adolescents 12- to- 18 and their parents. – from Minneapolis, MN on Fri, Dec 05, 2008
No hyphens with 12 to 18.
"One half of the employees are taking Friday off"%3B "One half of the employees is taking Friday off." Which is correct? I know in my gut that "are" is, but can you tell me why, in case I have to explain it to someone? Thanks! – from NY, NY on Fri, Dec 05, 2008
Plural verb is correct. Trim for clarity: Half the employees are taking Friday off.
"Off Set", in reference to a play, is two words? "The actor moved off set..." – from nyc on Thu, Dec 04, 2008
The actor moved off the set.
Is an Individual Retirement Account an IRA or an I.R.A.? What is the plural? – from Baytown, Texas on Thu, Dec 04, 2008
IRA, IRAs
Would you consider "New Orleans Saints" to be possessive if you were writing "New Orleans Saints' game"? – from Memphis, TN on Thu, Dec 04, 2008
probably.
Just to verify: I would spell out the number (if less than 10) in the expression "one-year anniversary, five years' experience." If these were headlines, I would use the numeral instead: "1-Year Anniversary," "5 Years' Experience." Am I correct in this usage? Also, why are numbers spelled out in these types of expressions, while they appear as numerals for ages, i.e., 1-year-old child? – from San Diego, Calif. on Thu, Dec 04, 2008
Correct on point one. AP usage is figures for ages.
Is it necessary to put phrases in quotes that are not direct quotes? For example: She said "yes" to the proposal%3B I'd like to be able to say "yes, I can help." Also, do you need to capitilize either yes? Are commas needed to introduce the phrase? – from houston, texas on Thu, Dec 04, 2008
Both are fine as written.
Our university is offering many training sessions for staff via an Internet-based system from a company called Elluminate (http://www.elluminate.com/). The company's name for the main product we're using for this purpose is "Elluminate Live!" (they italicize Live). I'm seeing units on my campus variously abbreviate this to eLive, E-live, Elive and Elive! Yikes! Any advice on how we should mak – from Fairbanks, Alaska on Thu, Dec 04, 2008
As a brand name, Elluminate Live (caps E and L, but no quotes, italics or exclamation). AP wouldn't abbreviate it, except possibly in a quote.
Is it "noninterest-bearing accounts" or "non-interest-bearing accounts"? Thanks. – from Milwaukee on Thu, Dec 04, 2008
the first is correct.
Is it noble fir, Noble fir or Noble Fir? – from Olympia, WA on Thu, Dec 04, 2008
noble fir (lowercase), per Webster's.
Is it "the short- and long-term plans" or "the short and long-term plans"? (Do you need the first hyphen?) Thanks! – from Minneapolis on Thu, Dec 04, 2008
the first example is correct.
We have this --- "I think it's going to be a significant number, probably an historic number," Smith said. Smith has seen a historic number before. --- It wouldn't be proper to alter Smith's quote, but having 'a' and 'an' so near each other is awkward. Is it correct as written? – from stpl, mn on Thu, Dec 04, 2008
yes.
Does AP put the titles of student films in quotation marks? – from houston, texas on Wed, Dec 03, 2008
yes. See "composition titles."
I understand AP is phasing out the hyphens in "8 of 14 from the free-throw line" but what if it's used as a modifier, like this: The Knights used an 8-for-10 performance to defeat the Bishops. Would that be hyphenated? – from Erie, Pa. on Wed, Dec 03, 2008
it's correctly hyphenated.
On Oct. 24, 2007, you answered a question about numerals and ratios as follows "Spell out one through nine, use figures for 10 and above: About two in 10 teachers..." However, on p. 189 of the 2008 Stylebook the example "1 in 4 voters" is listed as correct. Please clarify. Also, specifically, is "4 out of 7 students" correct, or should the numbers be spelled out? – from NY, NY on Wed, Dec 03, 2008
Yes, that example was added in the 2008 edition to specify figures in such ratios. Thus, 4 of 7 students is correct.
Should Time magazine be in all caps? Normally, I write it as "TIME Magazine," but I've also seen it written as "Time Magazine." – from St. Petersburg on Wed, Dec 03, 2008
AP spelling is Time magazine (cap-T only).
When and why is "yet" imperative? What meaning does it add? Example: "He wrote a check that has not yet cleared." "He wrote a check that has not cleared." Does "yet" imply the check will clear? – from nc on Wed, Dec 03, 2008
In this usage, yet is an adverb. It suggests continuance, a process under way.
I'm editing an article where each section begins with a quotation%3B the quote sets the tone, but isn't part of the article narrative. (This is much like many book chapters). How do I handle this? It came in this way: "There is no agony like bearing an untold story inside you.” --Maya Angelou – from Half Moon Bay, Calif. on Wed, Dec 03, 2008
Prefacing quotes would be highly unusual in AP news transmissions. Suggest you follow a book or magazine article format.
What is the AP style of writing number ranges, such as 15 to 20 years or 15-20 years? Is it okay just to spell it out? When do you use a hyphen and when do you spell out? Thank you. – from Houston, Texas on Wed, Dec 03, 2008
Both forms are acceptable. Let the context be your guide.
We are having a debate about whether to use "continue" or "continues" in this sentence: He adds, “there continue to be some spirited conversations with patients who don’t understand, but overall I think people recognize this is the right thing to do.” Which is correct? Thanks! – from Grand Junction, Colo. on Wed, Dec 03, 2008
continue (pl. verb) in agreement with conversations (pl. noun).
What are the rules for placing the word "the" before an organization's acronym? – from Alexandria, Va. on Mon, Dec 01, 2008
In abbreviations, the guidance is custom and usage. For example, the FBI, the CIA and the VA. But ABC, NBC and GM can stand without the definite article.
The stylebook refers to All-American with uppercase As, what about Academic All-American...do you cap Academic? Thank you. – from Lincoln, NE on Mon, Dec 01, 2008
yes.
Which usage of commas with the attribution is correct and why? But despite some miscalculations, Helbach said DSF does a good job with estimating project costs. But despite some miscalculations, Helbach said, DSF does a good job with estimating project costs. – from Milwaukee, WI on Mon, Dec 01, 2008
The second attribution makes clearer that both parts of the indirect quote are from Helbach.
Would you hyphenate "land use" as a compound modifier? Example: land-use planning. – from Portland, OR on Mon, Dec 01, 2008
Normally it's unhyphenated as a noun phrase: land use planning, land use management, etc.
As Barack Obama becomes the new president, we're getting into squabbles with readers over whether he is the "first African-American president" or "first black president" because he is bi-racial. But on his Web site, he refers to himself as African-American. Does AP have a stand on this issue? – from Cincinnati, Ohio on Mon, Dec 01, 2008
AP stories use both terms for President-elect Barack Obama. See stylebook's "African-American" and "black" entries.
Do nouns that describe people get "that" or "who", as in "executives" in this sentence?: "The category only includes executives who are not the CEO." – from Portland, ME on Mon, Dec 01, 2008
Use the personal pronoun "who" for this reference. The pronoun "that" is normally used for inanimate objects or animals without a name.
Looking for confirmation on how to format a long quote within a report - I know it should not have quotation marks and that it should be indented, but I'm wondering if it should also be reduced in text size? Thanks! – from Portland, Maine on Mon, Dec 01, 2008
There are various formats for this. You may want to use a different typeface or boldface the quotation for contrast. The Chicago Manual of Style may have a guide on this.
Do you know the AP rule for naming/classifying an organization as a 501c3 nonprofit? I looked in my AP Stylebook but didn’t find anything conclusive other than no hypen in onprofit. – on Mon, Dec 01, 2008
AP news stories describe groups or organizations as nonprofit if they qualify for that status.
When, if ever, would it be appropriate to use "as told to" in a byline in a print publication? Someone submitted an article to me that was so incomplete and so incomprehensible that I had to get a reporter to go out and do interviews and rewrite it. It doesn't seem right to say it was written by the original author. Or was this just a case of "extensive editing"? Thanks. – from Houston, TX on Mon, Dec 01, 2008
AP doesn't use that device. In the case you cite, perhaps bylines for both individuals? Or one byline atop and a contributor name at the end?
Why is atheist not capitalized while Catholics, Muslims, Buddhists, etc., are? – from Washington, DC on Mon, Dec 01, 2008
We follow Webster's on that term.
Would you hyphenate "peace-of-mind" if it's not being used as an adjective? – from Memphis, TN on Mon, Dec 01, 2008
no.
How does AP recommend attribution for internet handles? I've seen several methods, from just using the handle as a name to placing quotation marks around it. – from Kansas City, MO on Mon, Dec 01, 2008
AP avoids using handles alone, which amount to granting anonymity. If the handle is somehow relevant to a news story, it might be included in addition to the person's name.
Dave - In reference to the "undersecretary" entry - Are you aware that some cabnet-level agancies refer to the position as Under Secretary? – from larryo16705 on Sun, Nov 30, 2008
Yes, but AP uses one word.
We have a section heading titled "Voices and Thought" and there's disagreement in our office as to whether or not the "Thought" should be singular or plural. Is either thought or thoughts more appropriate? Thanks. – on Sat, Nov 29, 2008
Depends on the subject matter. Singular implies a body of concepts, plural suggests individual ideas. See dictionary definitions.
Is it proper to capitalize the word "the" in a sentence when referring to a named place, particularly if "the" is capitalized in their publicity logos or Web site? Examples may include "The John F. Kennedy Center" or Dover's own "The Biggs Museum." Would the same apply to musical groups, such as "The Beatles" or "The Rolling Stones"? (And yes, I'm showing my age.) – from Dover, Del. on Fri, Nov 28, 2008
the article is lowercase with these proper names.
B movies and B-list, or something different? – from Fargo, ND on Fri, Nov 28, 2008
B-movies, B-list for films and celebs of secondary rank.
Black Friday, capitalized, and in single quotations? – from Washington on Wed, Nov 26, 2008
Generally it's Black Friday (caps, no quotes) for the big shopping day after Thanksgiving.
Should the National Institutes of Health be regarded as one unit, which would mean using a singular verb? Thanks. – from Arlington, Va. on Wed, Nov 26, 2008
correct.
Which is preferred: all of a sudden OR all of the sudden? – from Milwaukee, WI on Wed, Nov 26, 2008
the first.
What's the correct way when using ellipsis in a quote (I'm shortening because the actual quote is longer). "We're ready to play ... " Smith said. "No one can stop us. OR "We're ready to play," Smith said. "... No one can stop us." – from Denver on Wed, Nov 26, 2008
See QUOTATIONS in the "ellipsis" entry. In a story, don't use ellipses at beginning and end of a direct quote.
What is the proper second reference to Milwaukee Historical Society? I am inclined toward historical society, but my colleague is inclined toward Historical Society. (We agree on society.) We have read the capitalization entry, the organizations entry and have consulted with several copy eds to no avail. Consider The AP Stylebook entry on second reference to city hall. It is an argument for – from Milwaukee, WI on Tue, Nov 25, 2008
society is no doubt sufficient in references after the proper name.
It seems you were mistaken in suggesting commas rather than semicolons for the following example: "Seattle%3B Atlanta%3B and Fontana, Calif." The three-element series included a segment containing material that already needed to be set off by a comma. – from Portland, Ore. on Tue, Nov 25, 2008
commas, not semicolons, are correct.
When an organization or credential title is trademarked, is the trademark symbol necessary? – from Minnesota on Tue, Nov 25, 2008
See "trademark" entry for AP's policy.
I just received the AP Guide to Punctuation since the AP Stylebook's explanation on punctuation is a little brief. I was surprised to find that both the dash and the elipsis are used differently than in the stylebook. Are there spaces around a dash and no spaces between the 3 elipsis dots? – from Houston on Tue, Nov 25, 2008
In the "dash" entry see WITH SPACES. In the "ellipsis" entry see SPACING REQUIREMENTS.
Is it Albion police Chief Irving Smith or Albion Police Chief Irving Smith? Albion police Officer William Trevor, Albion Police Officer William Trevor or Albion police officer William Trevor? – from Erie, Pa. on Tue, Nov 25, 2008
In these cases, police chief and police officer are capitalized titles.
"There were active duty and reserve service members." Should any of that be capped? (I'm particularly curious about "reserve.") Thank you! – from New York, NY on Tue, Nov 25, 2008
lowercase reserve. It's capitalized as part of a proper name, such as Army Reserve.
When referring to the upper part of a river (Upper Red Rock River) do you cap "Upper" or lowercase "upper"? – on Tue, Nov 25, 2008
lowercase "u"
I'm aware of the fraction entry but which is correct: He was sentenced to 2 1/2 to 5 years in prison. Or: He was sentenced to 2 1/2 to five years in prison. – from Erie, Pa. on Tue, Nov 25, 2008
the second is correct.
Hi, Which is correct? Are or Is? "Customer service, patient satisfaction, quality of care, and the friendliness of our organization are what set us apart." Thank You! – from Grand Junction, Colo. on Tue, Nov 25, 2008
correct as written.
Please tell me the style and punctuation of a pull quote. Thanks, Cyndy – from Houston, TX on Tue, Nov 25, 2008
Consult a graphics design/typography reference.
Is it grammatically correct to reference a single-family, singlefamily or single family residence? – from California on Mon, Nov 24, 2008
It's hyphenated as a modifier: single-family residence. Otherwise it's two words: A single family lived in the house.
How would this be hyphenated? "Climate change damaged algae" or "climate change-damaged algae"? – from Minnesota on Tue, Nov 25, 2008
suggest recast to avoid stacking modifiers: algae damaged by climate change.
The stylebook specifically addresses "secretary of state" as being lowercase when not in front of a name, but what about other Cabinet positions, e.g., secretary of the Treasury or treasury, Defense or defense, health and human services, etc.? – from Los Angeles on Tue, Nov 25, 2008
the same.
When listing more than one city and state within a press release are they separated with semi colons such as: Offices are located in Atlanta, Georgia%3B Dallas, Texas%3B with their corporate office located Tampa, Florida. – from Tampa, Florida on Mon, Nov 24, 2008
AP doesn't require states with Dallas and Atlanta, so the sentence should read: Offices are located in Atlanta and Dallas, with their corporate office in Tampa, Fla. Normally commas are used to set off lists of cities, states.
A very long time ago, Norm Goldstein said astronaut Heide Stefanyshyn-Piper should be referred to as "Piper" on second reference, instead of "Stefanyshyn-Piper" (the question is still up here on the site). I disagreed and told him as much, but the matter pretty much came to a close after her trip to space ended. Well, now she's back in space, and AP is (correctly?) referring to her by her ful – from dc on Tue, Nov 25, 2008
AP now uses the hyphenated name on second reference.
Hi. Within a story, once a city and state are provided, can the city be listed alone thereafter? For instance: "Wichita Falls, Texas" can then be referred to simply as "Wichita Falls"? Thanks. – from Washington on Mon, Nov 24, 2008
correct, with comma after Texas when city, state, are together on first reference.
Should you spell out a number greater than 10 in a headline? – from Memphis, TN on Mon, Nov 24, 2008
AP uses numerals for all numbers in headlines. See the "headlines" entry.
Would postsurgery or post-surgery be correct? Premenopausal or pre-menopausal? Postmenopausal or post-menopausal? – from Randolph, NJ on Mon, Nov 24, 2008
AP tends to hyphenate the first term and use one word for the second.
Passcode or pass code? – from TX on Sun, Nov 23, 2008
two words.
Comma question: "'Athletic from a young age her parents knew she would be a star runner." OR "Athletic from a young age, her parents knew she would be a star runner." Comma because it is separating to independent clauses correct? – from SC on Sat, Nov 22, 2008
See "dangling modifiers" entry for advice on recasting.
Does this quote require a comma: "For as long as I can remember I was taught to obey the Bible." Or "For as long as I can remember, I was taught to obey the Bible." ?? Thank you – from nc on Sat, Nov 22, 2008
no.
I just got my online subscription and already feel I'm getting my money's worth! We have many stories involving a local Air Force base, and use we often use Air Force-related terms. Consequently, where referring to the area where aircraft operate do we say "flightline" (one word) or "flight line" (two words)? In the Air Force, I believe, the former term is used, but what does AP have – from Dover, Del. on Sat, Nov 22, 2008
AP uses two words.
Hi, David! "Understand the factors driving when you can retire, your retirement income and the choices you can make to effect your future." Effect or affect as per AP? (It is website copy.) Thanks! Wendy – from NYC, NY on Fri, Nov 21, 2008
See "affect, effect" entry. Affect (influence) is the right choice.
Is it : "John Smith, age 24, walked into......" OR "John Smith, aged 24, walked into...." – from NC on Fri, Nov 21, 2008
Both are correct, though AP's normal usage is John Smith, 24, ...
How does one make the surname "Lunders" plural? All examples of making proper nouns plural refer to names that end in es rather than a consonant and an s (Jones, Gonzales, Charles). Is it as simple as adding an es, or is it s'? – from Des Moines, IA on Sat, Nov 22, 2008
Same rule -- add es for plural -- unless the family has another preference.
Still not 100% clear on verbs with CDC. CDC takes singular: OK. But you say to use a plural with centers: OK. But in the online stylebook you have: "Located in Atlanta, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and works..." Why is it not the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ARE? And if it should be are, shouldn't it als – from sfbay on Sat, Nov 22, 2008
AP regards the full name as a unit taking a singular verb. CDC is invariably used in subsequent references and also takes a singular verb.
What is the AP's preferred spelling of the following: collectible or collectable? Thanks! – from Des Moines, IA on Fri, Nov 21, 2008
See "collectibles" entry.
Another pet peeve of mine: "said." Does AP have a recommendation when sentences are written, "He said he feels the team is ready," or "Mr. Jones said he did not want to go." It just seems to me saying "He said he" is redundant. – from Dover, Del. on Fri, Nov 21, 2008
You don't want to overuse that construction.
Regarding "couple of": Does AP have any recommendations regarding the use of this term? To me, it seems unprofessional to say "Police reported a couple of crimes," or "He went there a couple of times. I'd prefer to use a solid number, or if that's not known, would want to say "several" or "a pair," or "more than once." – from Dover, Del. on Fri, Nov 21, 2008
It's a common phrase in direct or indirect quotes in AP stories. Your tactic in other situations makes sense.
At the end of a news release, how many # should there be and should there be a space between them?? – from Douglassville, PA on Fri, Nov 21, 2008
AP doesn't use the # sign on news wires. Better ask a press release service.
Acceptable?: "President and Mrs. George W. Bush..." – from Washington, D.C. on Fri, Nov 21, 2008
President George W. Bush and first lady Laura Bush are usual first references in AP stories.
Hi, David. Checkbook or check book as per AP? Dictionary.com doesn't differentiate. Thanks! – from nyc, ny on Thu, Nov 20, 2008
one word, per Webster's.
Should you initial cap "Impressionist" and "Post-Impressionist" in the sentence: "Focus on Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings..."? – from Memphis, TN on Thu, Nov 20, 2008
lowercase. See "artworks" entry.
Sorry, still confused. If you are writing a story today about a previous event at which Barack Obama spoke while on the campaign trail would you reference him as "then Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama"? Or how would he be referenced? – from Dallas on Thu, Nov 20, 2008
Barack Obama, then the Democratic presidential candidate, delivered a campaign speech, etc.
A timely question for winter: When writing about snow totals or expected snowfall do you spell out quarter and half or use the numerals -- 1/4, 1/2. As in "A quarter or a half inch of snow is expected%3B or Forecasters see a 1/4 to 1/2 inch snowfall. – from Washington, D.C. on Thu, Nov 20, 2008
Spell out those amounts. See "factions" entry.
Good morning! Is it correct to say, "...to help the hospital achieve an equally important goal, which is to be one of the best hospitals in the country to work." Thanks! – from Grand Junction, Colo. on Thu, Nov 20, 2008
... which is to be one of the best hospital workplaces in the country.
What would be the correct way to express these two numbers in a row: "Three four-page newsletters" or "Three 4-page newsletters"? Thank you. – from Des Moines, IA on Wed, Nov 19, 2008
Three four-page newsletters (printed stories on Page 4).
If we're speaking about regions of the state, should it be South Louisiana, North Louisiana and Central Louisiana or south Louisiana, north Louisiana and central Louisiana? We're not sure which to apply based on what is said about regions in the directions and regions entry but what also is said about states. (I guess the second question might be whether the preferred form would be southern Loui – from Baton Rouge, LA on Wed, Nov 19, 2008
Lowercase the compass point unless it's a widely known section, as in Southern California or South Florida. Use local preference on spellings.
Hi. We're confronting a subject-verb dilemma in a technical document. It currently reads: Of the $224 billion in projected revenue, $192 billion (86 percent) are/is committed funds (does "committed funds" counteract the singleness of the collective noun that the dollar figure forms, and therefore require a plural verb?) that are assigned to a specific use by federal, state, regional, or loc – from Oakland, Calif. on Wed, Nov 19, 2008
Try tightening: Of the $224 billion in projected revenue, $192 billion (86 percent) is committed to specific uses by federal, state and local governments.
Does AP have a style or suggestion for “Ride ’em, cowboy” OR “ride ’im, cowboy”? The former is usually seen but since cowboys ride one horse at a time, the latter seems technically correct. – from Shreveport, La. on Wed, Nov 19, 2008
The first is standard.
Would you put quotes around "trucker" when referring to trucker hats? Our audience is teachers and college administrators. Thanks! – from NY, NY on Wed, Nov 19, 2008
In rare uses, AP wrote trucker hat fad, no quotes.
Several dictionaries do not list "stormwater" as a one-word term, yet it is commonly used as such. Would you prefer it to be written as one word or two? "Its civil engineering capabilities include the development of (stormwater/storm water) management plans...." – from Omaha, Neb. on Wed, Nov 19, 2008
Search this archive for stormwater.
illegal vs. illicit. Which term is correct? E.g., People who use illegal drugs are more likely to be smokers. OR People who use illicit drugs are more likely to be smokers. – from Minnesota on Tue, Nov 18, 2008
these are synonyms, so both adjectives are correct.
Let's say someone's title was vice president of membership in the Membership department. Is "vice president of membership" correctly lowercase, and "Membership" department correctly capped, and is it correct to capitalize "membership in the folowing: "John Smith of Membership will present his findings." Thank you so much! – from NY, NY on Tue, Nov 18, 2008
lowercase formal title following name, capitalize it preceding the name. Department names can be lowercase if they are generic. However, businesses/organizations often choose to capitalize those names. I would lowercase membership in the last usage.
The stylebook says to use Dr. in first reference as a formal title for a person with the appropriate degree. I'm wondering if that applies in all stories, or just where their medical background is relevant. In, for instance, a story about property acquisition where someone involved is a doctor, would we call him Dr., even though the story has nothing to do with medicine? – from Riverside, CA on Mon, Nov 17, 2008
If the individual used the title in making the purchase, of if the designation is a factor in the acquisition, such as real estate bought as an office.
Does AP capitalize each word (except a, an, the, etc.)in the title of a report or survey results? – on Mon, Nov 17, 2008
Company internal reports may use additional capitalization for graphical reasons. However, the style for AP news is to capitalize only the first word and proper names of headlines, with some exception in Web versions.
Re: Guidelines are covered in "photo captions" entry of the online stylebook. Am I missing it? I haven't been able to find it in any search I've tried. – from Mount Pleasant, S.C. on Mon, Nov 17, 2008
Apparently it isn't online. What specifics do you need? I can provide a brief summary.
What is the correct capitalization for Grammy Award and Pulitzer Prize? Capital A and P or lowercase? Thanks! – from Palm Beach, Fla. on Mon, Nov 17, 2008
As you have them, caps A and P.
"The group included a lot of first-timers." Is it correct to hyphenate "first-timers"? – from NY, NY on Mon, Nov 17, 2008
correct.
Which is correct, "take the same tact" or "take the same tack"? – from Lawrence, Kan. on Sat, Nov 15, 2008
the second, deriving from the sailing term for a zig-zag course against the wind.
if you write about a character in a movie in a press release, do you use quotes around the name? (e.g. You can now see 'Luke Skywalker' at the San Francisco Wax Museum.) – from San Jose, CA on Sat, Nov 15, 2008
The name of the wax effigy isn't in quotes.
"Does AP use payor or payer when referring to who pays for healthcare (e.g., an insurance company)?" – from Medford, NJ on Fri, Nov 14, 2008
it's payer, as in single-payer system.
One editor feels that "Smith County Public Schools" should take a singular verb "make" instead of "makes" because it is an organization/entity just like General Motors or American Airlines, which take singular verbs. Is this editor right? The rest of the sentence is "... make(s) xyz projectors a centerpiece ..." – from Dallas, TX on Fri, Nov 14, 2008
This proper name denotes a unit, so it takes the singular verb makes. See "collective nouns" entry.
AP does not set Inc. off with a comma as part of a company's name. What about when the comma is part of a composition title: "Monsters, Inc." – from Houston, TX on Fri, Nov 14, 2008
The film title gets a comma.
What are the AP guidelines for captioning a photo? The online version of the stylebook does not provide an answer! Gerard Burkhart 818-207-0273 – from Los Angeles, CA on Fri, Nov 14, 2008
Guidelines are covered in "photo captions" entry of the online stylebook.
If you're asking someone to send in all their cereal box tops for a contest would you ask them to send in their "proofs of purchases" or "proofs of purchase?" – from Memphis, TN on Fri, Nov 14, 2008
proof of purchases
This is sort of an oddball question related to titles: How would you handle the title of a parade float? Quotes or no quotes? Thanks. – from Charlotte, NC on Fri, Nov 14, 2008
Float titles are enclosed in quotes.
Our ad department came up with the slogan "Built to be worry free." I believe that worry free should be hyphenated, but others say no hyphen. Who's correct? – from Oregon on Fri, Nov 14, 2008
In this case, hyphen unneeded.
"He met with Xavier Darcos, the French Minister of National Education." Should "minister of national education" be capitalized or lowercase? Thanks! – from NY, NY on Fri, Nov 14, 2008
lowercase.
Should this sentence use only commas or should semicolons be used after each age: David Lewin, 35, Alice Lewin, 34, and their children, Freddie Lewin, 7, and Barbara Lewin, 3, were seriously injured in the crash. – from Erie, Pa. on Fri, Nov 14, 2008
David Lewin, 35, Alice Lewin, 34, and their children, Freddie, 7, and Barbara, 3, were seriously injured in the crash.
What is the correct way to refer to the president of Brazil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, on second reference? We've seen Lula, da Silva and Luiz da Silva. Thanks. – from Bend, Ore. on Fri, Nov 14, 2008
Silva on second reference.
In a paragraph, how do you use colons in conjunction with quotes? Is this correct? He had this to say: I'll never be taken alive. or: He had this to say: "I'll never be taken alive." – from california on Fri, Nov 14, 2008
The second if the quotation comes within a paragraph. See stylebook's "colon (:)" entry.
Does AP have a preference on capitalization of "multiple listing service"? – from Mount Pleasant, S.C. on Thu, Nov 13, 2008
lowercase as a generic, capitalize for a specific business, such as Multiple Listing Service Inc.
Is it correct to write, "The study found increased hyperactivity among nearly 300 three-, eight-, and nine-year-old children" or are the hyphens not needed for the first two? – from Minnesota on Thu, Nov 13, 2008
AP uses figures for ages. To avoid numbers bumping against each other and multiple hyphens, you could recast: The study found increased hyperactivity among nearly 300 children ages 3, 8 and 9.
"Are job titles capitalized or not, specifically for an article on banking and when the title precedes the name: 'head teller Jane Doe, branch manager Mary Smith, loan assistant John Doe...' etc." – from New Orleans, LA on Thu, Nov 13, 2008
Whether these banking titles are capitalized or not when directly preceding the name depends on the conferring organization. Check with the bank.
May I ask why you decided to change your stance on using the first name of the current president and president-elect references? Eight years ago, this would have made sense, but especially at my publication, where we use these references all the time, this has many repercussions. Perhaps if you told us your reasoning, we'd be more inclined to go along with it. – from Washington, DC on Thu, Nov 13, 2008
To bring usage into conformity in all AP stories. For many years stories transmitted internationally have used both names when directly preceded by president. Now AP stories transmitted domestically will conform to that style.
"Standing room only" -- the stylebook entry has no hyphens but I've seen it hyphenated in many an AP story. "It was standing room only in the auditorium as he reflected on Hurricane Ike." Hyphen or no? – from Houston, TX on Thu, Nov 13, 2008
no hyphens. Perhaps you saw it hyphenated as compound modifier preceding a noun.
"He currently competes in Master's and Senior-level track and field." Should Master's and Seniors be capped? And should Master's have the apostrophe? Thank you! – from Boston, Mass. on Thu, Nov 13, 2008
masters and senior-level track and field.
When using the term open source in the following phrases, which is correct with or without the hyphen. "open-source" election AND open source software. – from Campbell, CA on Thu, Nov 13, 2008
hyphens in both cases.
More football: "He leads the team with 1,023 rushing yards (or 1,023 yards rushing)" OR "He leads the team in rushing, with 1,023 yards." – from Denver on Thu, Nov 13, 2008
all are fine, though no comma needed in third example.
When using the phrase "three to six months," should the "three-to-six months" by hyphenated or not? – from Atlanta, GA on Thu, Nov 13, 2008
no hyphens.
Is the following sentence correctly punctuated, or should the comma before or after "but" be deleted? "Using cell phones while driving has become commonplace, but, then again, some people are realizing the potential danger involved." – from Houston, TX on Thu, Nov 13, 2008
Suggest drop then again. But adequately introduces the contrasting idea.
In boxing and horse racing is it under card or undercard? – from Atlanta, GA on Thu, Nov 13, 2008
one word.
"He has 1,013 yards rushing." OR "He has 1,013 rushing yards." Seems it would be the latter (as well as with passing) because when return yards are used, you wouldn't say, "He has 1,013 yards returning" but "He has 1,013 return yards." – from Denver on Thu, Nov 13, 2008
It's used both ways in AP football stories.
How should we spell "Play-Doh" (the brand name) in a generic sense? play-dough, maybe? Thanks! – from Bend, Ore. on Wed, Nov 12, 2008
play dough (no hyphen)
Doesn't your update today -- the one on presidents -- conflict with the AP rule that is found under "Capitalization"? I'm talking about the rule that mentions "lakes Erie and Ontario." If I follow the latter, then shouldn't I write "blah, blah, blah and presidents Bush and Carter," as opposed to "Presidents Bush and Carter"? – on Thu, Nov 13, 2008
This title is an exception: Presidents George W. Bush and Jimmy Carter on first reference, Bush and Carter on subsequent references.
Hyphenate wind chill factor? – from Fargo, ND on Wed, Nov 12, 2008
no, check "weather terms"
My client uses this tagline on their logo: "Your On Demand Marketing Department." When I refer to on-demand marketing within body copy, I hyphenate it. Which is correct? Or should I leave it without a hyphen? – from Mukwonago, WI on Wed, Nov 12, 2008
marketing on demand, but could be hyphenated as a preceding modifier.
Just wanted to say, big thumbs-up on the style change on heads of state, using first and last names. – from Denver on Wed, Nov 12, 2008
Glad you like it. Me too.
I know AP style is "transgender"- one word. But as far as referring to groups of transgender- trans women, trans men-- is two words with no hyphen correct? Thanks! – from burlington, vt on Wed, Nov 12, 2008
AP refers to transgender men and women, or people.
Is it correct to hyphenate the following: "Non-Break-Off Plug Starter" (it's the name of a product) or should it be "Non Break-Off Plug Starter?" What's the rule for using "non" as an adjective? thank you, Memphis – from Memphis, TN on Wed, Nov 12, 2008
See "non-" and check a technical reference for such spellings.
Is it true that AP has switched its style on first reference to the president and heads of state? That it will no longer be 'President Bush' but President George W. Bush? – from Washington, D.C. on Wed, Nov 12, 2008
Yes, the wire advisory transmitted today says: EDITORS: The Associated Press is adopting a universal style for referring to all heads of state, including the United States. Effective Thursday at 3 a.m. EST, the AP will use the title and first and family names on first reference: President George W. Bush, not just President Bush; President-elect Barack Obama, not just President-elect Obama; President Nicolas Sarkozy, not just President Sarkozy. The AP
Are titles of art exhibitions put in quotations? – from Little Rock, AR on Tue, Nov 11, 2008
Yes, see "artworks" entry.
Is there a defined style for Generation X, Y, etc? – from Des Plaines, IL on Tue, Nov 11, 2008
As you wrote the terms -- caps G, X, Y.
Is it correct to say "at the local and international level" or should it be "levels"? E.g., "Carla has led a variety of projects to address sustainable development at the local and international level." – from Illinois on Tue, Nov 11, 2008
plural.
In abbreviations and acronyms -- and company names -- is it truly only initialisms (and 2-letter things) that get all-cap treatment, not acronyms? Maybe it's just my field, but i rarely run across the upper-lower version for short forms even when each letter is *not* pronounced individually (FIFA, HANS device, MEAC (mee-ack), NASCAR, WAC, plus NASA and such, obviously). – from Bristol, CT on Tue, Nov 11, 2008
There are no iron-clad rules on these spellings. My best advice is to look 'em up in the stylebook or Webster's. For others, conform to accepted usage. AP uses WAC, FIFA, NASCAR and NASA in all references, but MEAC is spelled out on first reference.
I'm editing a story about high schools from around the region that get together for a basketball tournament. The school names would not be well known, since some are hundreds of miles away. Should I use the full names of the schools on first reference (for example, Georgiana Bruce Kirby Preparatory School), or can I use something shorter (Kirby)? – from Half Moon Bay, Calif. on Tue, Nov 11, 2008
Ask tournament organizers.
Which is correct: "If ever there was a time when his leadership was needed, it is now" or "If there was ever a time..."? Thanks! – from Illinois on Mon, Nov 10, 2008
The adverb should go directly before the word or idea being emphasized.
When discussing well-known boroughs of New York City, such as Manhattan or Brooklyn, is it necessary to modify them with New York City, or is it acceptable for them to stand alone? Also, if using New York as the modifier, what is the preferred way to write it correctly (Manhattan in New York City, Manhattan, a borough of New York City)? – from Palm Beach, FL on Mon, Nov 10, 2008
AP establishes the location with a NEW YORK dateline. Manhattan and Brooklyn rarely require borough references. Occasionally AP stories will refer to all five boroughs and list them by name, including the Bronx, Queens and Staten Island. If the story doesn't have a dateline, AP would refer to the New York City borough or boroughs, citing the relevant names.
Do I capitalize the first letter of the attribution after a direct quote? – from Cleburne TX on Mon, Nov 10, 2008
Sure, if it's a proper name, as in Jones said. Otherwise, lowercase the pronoun attribution, as in she said.
I've read the explanations regarding the capitalization of "Officer" before a police officer's name but the difference between an occupational title and a formal rank remains unclear. Can you offer an explanation? – from Erie, Pa. on Tue, Nov 11, 2008
Check archive for Sept. 24 response.
I don't understand why AP prefers "President-elect Obama" over President-elect Barack Obama. He isn't president yet, therefore I believe his full name should be used until the moment he takes the oath of office. – from Kaiserslautern, Germany on Wed, Nov 12, 2008
UPDATE. Starting Thursday, Nov. 13, AP will use first and last names with the title of U.S. president or president-elect on first reference. Same holds for presidents of other nations.
How would you (or would you) hyphenate the following? "Adding widgets to the construct is less well-understood." OR "Adding widgets to the contrust is less-well understood." thank you – from Memphis, TN on Mon, Nov 10, 2008
Drop well. Adding widgets to the construct is less understood.
Hi. I am stumped by this phrase: minimum use temperature. It means the lowest temperature at which an adhesive can be used. Should I place a hyphen between minimum and use? – from columbus ohio on Mon, Nov 10, 2008
Check a scientific reference for the accepted spelling.
Hi, David, Webster's gives "hearkens back" as the primary spelling for a phrase that's commonly rendered as "harkens back," but the dictionary notes that the hearkens back "usage objected to by some." Does AP favor one over the other? Thank you. – from Syracuse, NY on Sun, Nov 09, 2008
Clear majority of AP stories use harken back.
On first reference, President-elect Barack Obama or President-elect Obama? – from Fargo, ND on Wed, Nov 12, 2008
UPDATE. Starting Thursday, Nov. 13, AP will use first and last names with president or president-elect on first reference.
David, Does AP hyphenate to-do list? Thanks. – from Syracuse, NY on Fri, Nov 07, 2008
yes.
Is the word "will," as in the legal document, capitalized? – on Fri, Nov 07, 2008
not in a news story.
When referring to people who ring bells for the Salvation Army donation kettles, should we use bell-ringer, bell ringer or bellringer? – from Collinsville, IL on Fri, Nov 07, 2008
two words, no hyphen needed.
Is the "L" in "Lord" upper-cased in this sentence? "I guess the Lord was looking out for me that day." – from Erie, Pa. on Fri, Nov 07, 2008
Capitalized in meaning God or Jesus, with lowercase the.
I know plurals of single letters take apostrophes, but what is the rule for using lower- or uppercase for those letters? The guide uses "mind your p's and q's" and "a report card with four A's and two B's" as examples. What dictates the use of caps of lowercase letters? – from Garden City, NY on Fri, Nov 07, 2008
Often the dictionary spelling. Webster's uses capital A for "a grade indicating excellence ..." and lowercases the letters in "mind your p's and q's." But it caps the three R's. In other cases, popular usage can be decisive.
Can you recommend a reference book for British English? Thank you. – from Des Moines, IA on Fri, Nov 07, 2008
The stylebook's bibliography, other references, lists Concise Oxford English Dictionary, Eleventh Edition.
In the headline, "Fine tune your retirement plan," would you hyphenate "fine tune?" Thank you. – from Milwaukee on Fri, Nov 07, 2008
I would defer to Webster's, which hyphenates this verb.
When referring to someone's income, which is correct: "He earns ten dollars a month" or "He earns ten dollars per month"? Or something else entirely? – from Berkeley, CA on Fri, Nov 07, 2008
In normal speech, "He earns $10 a month." However, per month is equally correct.
White-nose syndrome or white nose syndrome? And any capital letters there? – from burlington, vt on Thu, Nov 06, 2008
no hyphen.
Based on the heavenly bodies entry, I would assume that the term "solar system" should be lowercase. Is that correct? Also, has the AP adopted use of the term "plutoid" to refer to dwarf planets Pluto and Eris? – from D.C. on Thu, Nov 06, 2008
lowercase; yes.
I've seen the apostrophe both used and omitted in the following types of constructions: "The Bears' special teams unit" vs. "The Bears special teams unit" Which does AP use? Thank you! – on Thu, Nov 06, 2008
normally it's a possessive.
Film maker or filmmaker? – from ohio on Thu, Nov 06, 2008
AP uses one word.
Please sponsor our Speakers and Poster Presenters breakfast -- do I need to make Speakers and Presenters possessive? – from Tulsa, OK on Thu, Nov 06, 2008
no.
R.I.P. or RIP? – from Fargo, ND on Thu, Nov 06, 2008
the first.
Hello, do you use a definite article with the name of a specific ship? "the Intrepid spent a month at sea" or "Intrepid spent a month at sea" – from New York City on Wed, Nov 05, 2008
lowercase article or without article.
Would AP us quotation marks around something that was printed on a sign? He parked right under a sign that said "No Parking." – on Wed, Nov 05, 2008
Yes, in this case.
Zeros or zeroes in the following: Ensure that the balance zeroes out. – from Minneapolis, Minn on Wed, Nov 05, 2008
See stylebook entry.
What makes a name proper? For example: Contact your local ABC Clinic for more information. Is clinic capitalized? How about: Four ABC Clinics were closed due to poor weather conditions. Thanks! – from Fargo, ND on Tue, Nov 04, 2008
ABC Clinic (if clinic is part of the formal or proper name); ABC clinics (lowercase "c" as plural of common noun element in the name).
I know that figures are used for ages (3-year-old) but how about for time periods? For example: The Dow sunk to a 5-year low. Or is it five-year low? Thanks. – from Chicago on Tue, Nov 04, 2008
below 10, spell out the figure.
Is "robocall" one word or two? – from Los Angeles on Tue, Nov 04, 2008
two.
Thank you for the new entry for "-maker" in the 2008 Stylebook. My only question is, what do we do when the noun has three words instead of just two? For example, "kit plane maker" and "video game maker." As nouns based on the entry, there would be a hyphen before maker definitely. But does the first part need one too? How should these be punctuated? Thanks. – from Bend, Ore. on Tue, Nov 04, 2008
these are noun phrases correctly spelled without hyphens.
What's your take on allowing the use of Gitmo (to save space) in a headline about Guantanamo? – from Hyannis, MA on Mon, Nov 03, 2008
AP frequently uses Gitmo in story headlines.
types vs. kinds? This (type, kind) of equipment is used for ... – from sfbay on Tue, Nov 04, 2008
interchangeable
Is "break-off" in the following sentence a verb or an adjective? "When all implants are securely in place, final tightening and break-off of the set screw head is performed." (thank you) – from Memphis, TN on Tue, Nov 04, 2008
neither, it's a noun, as is tightening.
What is AP's style on the military's don't ask, don't tell policy? Upper case, quotation marks, hyphens? Thanks – from Washington, D.C. on Mon, Nov 03, 2008
"don't ask, don't tell" policy
Regarding farm machinery: "power takeoff" or "power take-off"? – from Eagan, MN on Mon, Nov 03, 2008
See stylebook's "take off, takeoff"
The Stylebook says, "In stories, try to use the name of the Web site rather than the Web address," but also "When a story prominently mentions a specific Web site or Web service, include the Internet address within the text." But how exactly do I format that? If the article is about the Evite service, for example, do I write Evite (www.evite.com)? – from Half Moon Bay, Calf. on Tue, Nov 04, 2008
... the company said on its Web site, http://www.bmw.com, that profits fell in the third quarter ...
I see in March 2007 you said that AP uses "gift wrap" as two words. Does it matter if this is a verb or a noun? (I notice that Webster's New World College Dictionary uses gift-wrap for the verb.) – from Half Moon Bay, Calif. on Mon, Nov 03, 2008
AP uses gift wrap (n.), as in product lines, and hyphenates as modifier. I'll defer to Webster's on the hyphenated verb form.
How do I show military and government time, e.g. 1000 vs. 10:00 – from San Diego, CA on Sat, Nov 01, 2008
For people who are unfamiliar with the 24-hour clock, you could give both: 10 a.m. (1000), 1:15 p.m. (1315), etc.
The 2008 AP Stylebook, under “company names,” says “Do not use all-capital letter names unless the letters are individually pronounced: BMW.” Does that ap