AP format is the industry standard for journalists and PR experts alike. Any writing pro should know that writing anything for business or the media, you must learn to adapt the content to AP format. The AP Styleguide lists specific language guidelines in accordance with its proper AP format rules. To reflect the ever-changing world, the AP Styleguide updates its guidelines every other year.
The 57th edition of the AP Stylebook was released this past June. The refreshed edition includes a new chapter on (1) inclusive storytelling as well as updates to the (2) social media and (3) religion chapters. Check out the details on the three new chapters below.
1. Inclusive Storytelling – why equality for all matters and should be reflected in the language we use
The new chapter on inclusive storytelling guides writers on how to refer to those with disabilities, race, gender, and sexual orientation. The AP Stylebook created this new chapter to ensure that those who have been misrepresented in history and in journalism are now accurately represented in the media.
According to the Associated Press, the main goal of inclusive storytelling is to guide readers to overcome unconscious biases. The Associated Press advocates that this is done by using precise language that accurately describes all individuals. Vague language leads to generalization. It is important to avoid nix language that suggests overt pity or wonder. Some of the new guidelines in the inclusive storytelling chapter are below.
To avoid misgendering, the AP Stylebook suggests using they, them, and their pronouns as much as possible. Other updates include capitalizing the “d” in Deaf when referring to the “Deaf community.” The AP Stylebook guides writers to only refer to a person’s disability when relevant to the story.
2. Social Media – it’s more than being social, you must be savvy too!
This one might not be so obvious but even on social media, AP format must be adhered to. This chapter focuses on social media and web-based reporting and advises writers to guard against misinformation shared on social media platforms. In this section, the Associated Press includes social media guidelines for journalists and others in the media/communications world. Currently, there’s lots of discourse about the way social media is being used for reportage purposes. With all the noise surrounding platforms, such as Twitter, some study of this chapter is most definitely worth your while. Social media has become a major vehicle in leveraging PR coverage and having more eyes on news stories. While many PR and media pros have a love/hate relationship with social media, one thing is for certain, it’s a major part of communications policy in many organizations. Click here to read why social media advertising should be part of your marketing strategy.
3. Religion – praise be
While religion and politics are often considered forbidden topics, it’s essential to use the correct terms and updated AP entries when writing on this topic or referring to another’s belief system.
The religion section of the AP Styleguide has been thoroughly updated and expanded. There are 30 new entries guiding how to reference different religions such as African Methodist Episcopal Church, Sikhi, Sikhism, humanism, “nones” and others. The term “nones” is an increasingly popular term for those who answer “none of the above” in surveys asking what religion they follow.
Another update includes guidelines advising against using Roman Catholic as a first reference when referring to the pope, the Vatican or the universal church. Instead, the term “Catholic Church” should be used.
4. Keeping Updated
Additions to the stylebook constantly update to reflect how the English language evolves in reference to cultural trends, shifts and events. If you are ever unsure about any AP format updates, check the AP Stylebook’s website. If you don’t already, it’s a good idea to follow the @APStylebook’s Twitter account. It is another excellent resource for providing users with quick and relevant AP format tips.
As PR professionals, AP style is the industry standard in all of our written communications. If you’re in need of professional assistance with your PR and copywriting efforts, we would love to help. Please feel free to contact us to schedule a consult and learn why being correct in your communications is worth its weight in gold.