The art of writing in the AP style, a cornerstone of journalistic integrity and clarity. For those who strive to produce error-free content, particularly in the context of New Hampshire, understanding and applying AP style guidelines is crucial. Here are 10 AP style tips tailored for New Hampshire writers, ensuring their work is not only accurate but also engaging and professionally presented.
Dates and Times: When referring to dates and times in New Hampshire, the AP style recommends using month, day, and year (e.g., Feb. 22, 2023). For times, use figures (e.g., 1 p.m., 3:30 a.m.), and avoid using o’clock. This consistency helps maintain a clear and concise narrative.
Titles and Positions: In AP style, titles are capitalized when they immediately precede a name, but lowercased when they follow a name. For instance, “Gov. Chris Sununu” is correct, but in a sentence, it would be “Chris Sununu, the governor.” This rule applies across all professions and is essential for respecting individuals’ titles while maintaining stylistic consistency.
State and City Names: AP style advises spelling out state names in stories, except for in datelines or when part of a federal agency’s name. For example, “The project will be based in New Hampshire” rather than “NH.” City names should always be accompanied by the state name unless the city is widely recognized, which does not typically apply to New Hampshire cities.
Numbers: The AP style has specific rules for numbers. Generally, numbers one through nine are spelled out, while 10 and above are represented in figures. However, there are exceptions for ages, percentages, and dimensions, which are always in figures. This rule helps in maintaining a professional tone and clarity in writing.
Percentages and Dollars: Percentages and dollar amounts should always be represented in figures, with a percentage sign and a dollar sign, respectively. For example, “The company saw a 25% increase in sales” and “The project costs $1 million.” This ensures precision and ease of comprehension.
Singular vs. Plural: Understanding when to use singular or plural nouns is crucial, especially in reference to organizations and companies. The AP style typically treats companies and organizations as singular entities, even though they are composed of numerous individuals. For example, “The company is” rather than “The company are.”
Active Voice: The AP style encourages the use of active voice over passive voice. Active voice makes writing more engaging, clear, and concise. For instance, “The governor signed the bill” is more effective than “The bill was signed by the governor.” This choice of voice can significantly impact the reader’s experience.
Hyphens and Compounds: The AP style guide has detailed rules for hyphenating compound adjectives and words. A general rule is to hyphenate two or more words that work together as a compound adjective preceding the noun they modify. However, when these words follow the noun, they are usually not hyphenated. For example, “self-driving car” but “the car is self driving.”
Libel and Privacy: AP style emphasizes the importance of protecting individuals from libel and respecting privacy. Writers must be cautious when reporting about private citizens, especially in sensitive matters. Accuracy and fairness are paramount, and any potentially damaging information must be thoroughly verified.
Stylebook Updates: The AP stylebook is updated annually, and it’s essential for writers to stay current with the latest guidelines. These updates reflect changes in language use, technology, and cultural sensitivity. By incorporating these updates, writers can ensure their work remains relevant, respectful, and mistake-free.
In conclusion, mastering the AP style is a continuous process that requires attention to detail and a commitment to clarity and accuracy. By embracing these guidelines, writers in New Hampshire can elevate their craft, producing work that is not only error-free but also compelling and informative. Whether writing about local events, national news, or cultural trends, the AP style serves as a foundational tool for effective communication, ensuring that the message is conveyed with precision and professionalism.
