How To Use Punctuation Like A Journalist
Want to write like a newspaperman? News outlets normally use the Associated Press style of writing as a guideline, regardless of whether they’re publishing in traditional media outlets or one the web.
Many beginning writers enjoy employing the same standard to their own writing, as the AP style can help your written pieces look both professional and easy to digest. If you’re trying to integrate it into your skill set, there’s no easier place to start than to use it in your punctuations.
Using Commas
In AP style, the final comma in a series is always eliminated unless the list won’t make perfect sense without it. Similarly, omit the comma before the Jr., Sr. or Roman numerals in names.
Using Periods
Acronyms, for the most part, are written without periods in AP conventions. The only exceptions to these are the following: U.S., U.N., A.M. and P.M. Initials and abbreviations, however, must all wear a period at the end.
Using Quotation Marks
Use quotes only for direct quotations and nicknames. Avoid using it for direct quotes where the meaning and the source is clear.
Using Colons
Colons are avoided in AP style and pretty much any other form of journalistic writing. Their only acceptable use is when showing the time (e.g. 11:30 PM).
Use Your Grammar Software
Many modern grammar software are able to check writing for adherence to AP conventions. If you want to make sure you make the cut, run your work through it with the AP setting configured. I can’t imagine an easier way to improve your present writing, while learning at the same time.