We have another important entry for your company style guide: how to stylize bulleted lists. It’s worth adding this one because a lot of people go rogue. Here’s what you need to explain: Capitalization in Bulleted Lists Some people always capitalize the first letter of every bullet point. Others lowercase it if each bullet is [...]
Attribution is important in stories, and you may be confused about whether you should use “says” or “said.” You might also wonder: Does it really matter? This won’t surprise you, but at Active Voice Communications, we think it ALL matters. At a bare minimum, it matters because style consistency is important. So, your organization should [...]
Breathe is a verb. For example: After her new asthma medications, she could breathe easier. Breath is a noun. For example: Whenever he was stressed out, he took a deep breath.
As you prepare your content to welcome your audiences to the new year, it's a good time to brush up on capitalization rules. Here's the general rule: Capitalize "New Year" when referring to the holiday, but not when referring to the concept of a new year in general. That means: Yes, capitalize "New Year" in [...]
Is it M.D. or MD? AP Style recommends using periods with academic degrees (e.g., M.D.). However, at AVC, we prefer the cleaner look of no periods (MD). Whatever style you choose, the key is to stick with it across your content for consistency.
The Associated Press Stylebook now uses the % symbol when paired with a number (no space). This was a change for AP in 2019. Examples: The project was completed 75% faster. Her grade improved by 4.5%. At AVC, we prefer the symbol over the word for efficiency and clarity. Bonus tip: For amounts less than [...]
We frequently see style questions about sequential designations — numerals vs. spelling out and capitalization rules. For example: Phase 1, which includes a new nurses’ station and renovations to operating rooms in the east wing, will be completed in 2028. We’ve been ensuring customer satisfaction since Day 1. So, should you use numerals or spell [...]
Setup is a noun and adjective and set up is a verb. For example: He was set up by the mob. Her home entertainment center setup looked expensive. Do not use set-up.
Capital means uppercase letters, money/wealth or the city that serves as the seat of a country's or state's government. A capitol is the building where the legislative branch (Congress) convenes. Capitalize U.S. Capitol. Also, capitalize the Capitol when referring to the building in Washington, D.C.: Senators gathered at the Capitol. Do the same for state [...]
Graduation season is upon us, which means you may be called upon to write about academic degrees more than usual. Not sure how to properly write about degrees? Here’s a refresher on Associated Press style. Possessives in academic degrees Use an apostrophe in bachelor’s degree and a master’s. But it’s an associate degree (no possessive). [...]
