![]() Writers should always spell out numbers used at the beginning of a sentence, such as, “Forty students…” but years should always be written with numerals, such as, “1980 was…” However, there are also a few exceptions to AP style guidelines for numbers. Instances in which a writer should always use numerals instead of writing out numbers include: But readers be warned, there are exceptions to this rule. When it comes to content marketing, best practices typically revolve around numbers, dates, citations, capitalization, and headlines.Īccording to AP style, content writers should spell out numbers one through nine and use numerals for numbers 10 and higher. Unless you’re prepared to invest several hours into scanning hundreds of pages in the AP Styleguide, it’s easier to review the most common best practices for AP style. Today, content marketers should always present their audience with the most important information first, so if a reader leaves the page mid-way through, they’ve at least instilled the most relevant part of their message. With the “inverted pyramid” thought process, printers could simply cut off the bottom of a story if it didn’t fit in the allotted column. Of course, this approach stems from the days where newspapers were printed with very limited space. Supporting information is presented lower in the copy, and the least important details are always included last. The most important information is presented first, in the lead or introduction. Secondly, content marketers can benefit from the “inverted pyramid” approach of AP style. Plus, it creates a writing style readers can come to expect and recognize, assisting in branding efforts. This helps ensure that content marketing is easy to read and concise, so it can connect with a wide audience. However, that’s not to say that many of AP’s earliest benefits for journalists don’t still benefit the content marketers of today.įor one, the continued use of AP style means that writing style is uniform across all outlets. Today, the ease of online media outlets and blogs makes available space much less of an issue. Back in the 1950s, when the guide was first published, writing space was limited, and it was extremely costly for news outlets to correct errors. What are the benefits of using AP style?ĪP style was originally developed with print media in mind. If you’re ever in doubt about acceptable word use or modern jargon, the styleguide is continuously refreshed to keep up with trends. ![]() For instance, the latest edition included new or revised entries for digital wallets, smart devices, and the novel coronavirus. While the AP Styleguide was originally sold as a handbook for reporters, it’s rapidly become the leading reference for the majority of public-facing communication, including websites, white papers, and press releases to reflect new additions to the English language or address common verbiage seen in the media. The ins and outs of AP style can be found within the “Associated Press Stylebook and Briefing on Media Law.”. ![]() AP style dictates basic rules for grammar and punctuation, as well as specific styles for numbers, spelling, capitalization, abbreviations, acronyms, and much more. What is AP style?Īssociated Press (AP) style is the go-to English style and usage guide for journalism and news writing, such as magazines and newspapers. By following AP guidelines for these elements, writers can enforce a sense of consistency that makes content easier to write and more pleasant to read through.Įditor’s Note: Looking for a simple way to make sure you and your team of writers are using the AP Style correctly? An AI writing platform, such as Writer’s app can ensure that your writing is consistent. But for content writers and content marketers who aren’t formally trained in AP style, mastering the 500-page book, which is updated annually can be a herculean undertaking.įortunately, the nuts and bolts of AP style can be simplified into five main categories: numbers, dates, citations, capitalization, and headlines. AP Stylebook) is to journalists what HubSpot is to content marketers: the industry “bible.”įor more than 50 years, journalists have turned to AP Style for everything from grammar and style rules to trusted best practices.
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