Four AP Style Rules Every Writer Should Know

Author: Kellie Walton Benz

From creative writing to press releases to bylines and even social media posts, there are a few writing rules every content creator should know, especially with media-facing written materials. The AP Style Guide is the go-to guide for grammar and style rules and is a must-have resource to leverage during all stages of writing – from drafting through editing and publishing.

AP Style is used as a rule by most newspapers, magazines and other media outlets. In public relations specifically, the bulk of content created will enter the hands of media, so AP Style is important to use as a rule across the industry. Not only does this establish credibility between PR and media, it also ensures content is turn-key and ready for media use without the need for revisions. Utilizing AP Style helps develop stronger, mutually beneficial relationships between PR professionals and the media, ultimately benefiting brands seeking coverage.

While AP Style rules may regularly change (follow @AP on Twitter to track the updates), we’ve rounded up four key rules to keep in mind when writing.

Understand when to use numerals and when to spell out numbers.

Numbers will inevitably pop up throughout written materials, and one of the most common AP Style mistakes relates to spelling out versus writing numerals. Currently, AP Style states that numbers less than 10 should be spelled out (one, two, three), while numbers 10 and greater should be written numerically (10, 25, 100).

Know the exceptions to the numeral rule.

Of course, there are a few exceptions that are important to understand. First and foremost, sentences should never begin with a written numeral – no matter the traditional rule (i.e., Twenty people are coming for dinner.) Additionally, ages and dollars – even when less than 10 – should always be written numerically (i.e., She is a 2-year-old. The home costs $3 million.).

Learn to tell time appropriately.

While time of course includes numbers, the rules have a manual all their own. Keep in mind, any written time should be a numeral, and time on the hour should stand alone (3 p.m., not three p.m. or 3:00 p.m.). This remains true for all but noon and midnight, which should never be written with a 12.

Pay attention to dates.

Dates are another multi-faceted rule in the AP Stylebook. Speaking of numerals, dates should always be written numerically, no matter the number (July 3, not July third). Here’s where dates can get tricky: The months of August through February are abbreviated when paired with a numeral (He was born Aug. 5) but spelled out when standing alone (He was born in August.).

We know AP Style rules can be confusing, so if you’re looking to hire an experienced copywriter, reach out to us!