I would assume that most of those reading this blog already understand the importance of AP Style, but here’s a quick little description:
AP Style is basically a grammar and punctuation style used by editors, columnists, pr professionals, and so on. It’s a specific style agreed upon by editors so that respected publications and various well-known organizations are following the same format and styles for writing.
So what is the importance of such a style? Why is there a whole book dedicated to such a topic? Why should you, a pr student or professional be interested in such a book? Simple: without at least a basic grasp of this writing style, there is no way you’ll get hired on with a newspaper, agency or corporation…and if you do, I wouldn’t imagine that they’ll keep you around long!
The book deals with every possible grammar or punctuation detail that one might need to know. With news releases for example: there always must be a dateline! The dateline basically tells when and where the news is taking place. From the get-go, a reader knows if the information might pertain to him or her simply based off of location.
1) The dateline should include the city name in all CAPS
2) The city name should be followed by the name of the state, county or territory
3) Based off of state populations however, some cities stand alone (e.g. ATLANTA, DENVER, LOS ANGELES, etc.)–oh and by the way, “e.g.” is correct here…I used my AP Stylebook to check! Soooo handy! haha
4) Certain states must be spelled out, including Ohio, Texas and Utah, but other states are abbreviated (See pg. 77 in the 2009 edition of the AP Stylebook)
This is just one example of AP Style and why it is so important that it be universally known by editors, writers, pr pros and other writing-oriented professions.
It can be a bit tricky to remember everything. The book contains information on abbreviations, addresses, prefixes, capitalization, and so on. The list goes on and on and on and on and on and on…well, you get the point! This stuff can be tricky, even for the most skilled grammarian!
As a soon-to-be college graduate in public relations, I find myself retracing all the things I’ve learned over the past three years in college about grammar, punctuation and public relations. I want to be ready for whatever may be thrown my way in this exciting and ever-changing field….and so should you! Here’s a great article on grammar that you might want to read…I know I loved it!
It’s time to get back to the basics and remember what our field prides itself in! I’m sick of seeing mistakes in the local newspaper. I guess it’s up to you and me to be well-versed and prepared for our field…I mean, it is our job! We certainly can’t leave it up to anyone these days, because honestly, in today’s world, most people could care less…hmmm, sad…
If you need to pick up a copy of the current edition, check it out here.
Now this video may lack in a little taste…but I like the song and it gets the point across: bad grammar is EVERYWHERE! Can’t we all just get an AP Stylebook?
