States abbreviation ap style. The American Psychological Association (APA) "Publication Manual," which is used for writing academic papers, agrees about using the Feb 21, 2025 · Discover essential guidelines for using state abbreviations in AP Style to avoid common errors and boost your writing's credibility. For the states’ acceptable abbreviations and when the abbreviations may be used, see our full page on AP Style states. Paul, Minn. Oct 8, 2024 · Discover the essential guidelines for using AP Stylebook state abbreviations in your writing. (See AP Stylebook for the list of those abbreviations. Oct 29, 2024 · Here are some common mistakes to watch for: Using Postal Abbreviations Instead of AP Style Postal abbreviations (e. NOTE: AP sticks to the USPS abbreviations when the full address is provided in the text. Learn the various ways AP says you should handle abbreviation rules. May 1, 2023 · a. This comprehensive resource covers AP style rules, state abbreviations list, and practical tips for consistent formatting in professional writing. "). Perfect for journalists, editors, and content creators. Perfect for journalists, editors, and writers, this resource covers essential rules, exceptions, and best practices for accurate and consistent state abbreviation in AP Style writing. Exceptions: Saint John (city in New Brunswick) and Saulte Ste. 2014 AP style update: In running text, spell out the names of states whether standing alone or in conjunction with a city, town, village, or military base. Traditional abbreviations for states and provinces begin with a capital letter and end with a period. AP Style for State Names and Abbreviations Usage of State Names and Abbreviations State names should be spelled out when they appear in the body of a text, and state abbreviations should be avoided in headlines where possible. The Associated Press Stylebook is the reference manual for AP Style. Master AP style press releases with this comprehensive guide. (with periods). Jun 13, 2022 · AP style refers to the guidelines we find in the Associated Press Stylebook available digitally and in print. states, ensuring accuracy in journalism and professional writing. For example, I live on Michigan Apr 28, 2014 · Quick quiz: How do you spell the name of the state where the Red Sox play? Where does your mail go if the postal abbreviation is AS? Is Pennsylvania abbreviated Pa. What is AP Style? The Associated Press Stylebook and Briefing on Media Law official style guide of the Associated Press, a not-for-profit news agency that’s been around since 1846. When To Spell Out Full Name If a state’s name is standing alone or in conjunction with a city or town in your text, spell out the entire state’s name. And, here is how to use a city (and state) in the dateline. In most cases, however, the stylebook suggests using a generic reference such as the agency or the alliance . Below is a summation of AP Style guidelines when writing out addresses in your text. [14] However, the Chicago Manual of Style now recommends the use of the uppercase two-letter abbreviations, with the traditional forms as an option. Sep 27, 2020 · The Associated Press Stylebook has various guidelines on acronyms and initialisms. Examples: He came from Lafayette, Ind. "? – Mianxiu, China Answer This is an excellent question and a hard one to answer, because the rules are changing all the time. , to Austin, Texas, en route to his home in Albuquerque, N. Also, see abbreviations for: US "Military States", Canadian Provinces and Mexican States. ) but recommends omitting them in headlines (US). For example: Incorrect (Postal): “She lives Introduction Associated Press style provides guidelines for news writing. Domestic Do not use the postal abbreviations for state names. Domestic and international large cities stand alone in datelines (see the AP Stylebook under “datelines” for a complete listing). Some acronyms, such as NATO, can be used on first reference. The city is capitalized, followed by the state or country, with specific rules for abbreviations and cities that stand alone without state names. It’s important to use the correct and widely recognized abbreviations for accuracy and Study with Quizlet and memorize flashcards containing terms like When should you abbreviate states?, When should you not abbreviate states?, Alabama and more. Oct 17, 2024 · AP style states refer to US state abbreviations, using Associated Press guidelines, standardizing state names, postal codes, and geographical locations for journalism and writing, ensuring clarity and consistency in news reporting and editorials. as formal titles when they appear before one or more names. Abbreviate “Saint” as “St. , and New York is abbreviated as N. 31, 2019 Cities and States In datelines and running text, most cities should be listed with their state, but some very well-known cities should appear alone. tates and cities When the name of a state stands alone in a sentence, spell it out. ) Jul 19, 2023 · Associated Press Style Introduction Associated Press style provides guidelines for news writing. If necessary, follow it with the state abbreviation –– not the U. (For example Jun 4, 2009 · Use the two-letter Postal Service abbreviations only with full addresses, including ZIP code. Abbreviations such as UK and UN are therefore usually written without periods, except in certain styles, as discussed below. States should also be abbreviated when used as part ofa short-formpolitical affiliation. Here is a listing of states with their respective ISO code, postal abbreviation, and AP-style abbreviation. postal code. Learn the essential rules for using two-letter state abbreviations, including proper placement in addresses, datelines, and text. State abbreviations are required in short-form listings of party affiliation: Ex:D-Ala. For reference see the Navy Style Guide addendum at the bottom of this document. This list is not inclusive but should help you cover some of the most common situations you might run into. Oct 19, 2022 · Let’s take a tour through how AP style, the gold standard for communicators, approaches a variety of different abbreviations. Perfect for journalists, editors, and writers seeking clarity on AP style guidelines. There are quite a few rules in the AP Stylebook for state names and AP Style state abbreviations. Master the correct two-letter codes for all U. An AP Style dateline in a press release must include a city name in all capital letters, followed by the state abbreviation (when required), and the date. Spell out and lowercase representative and senator in all other uses. This guide updates continuously to keep up with trends regarding appropriate word choices, usage, and jargon. Has your client abided by these rules? Use our post to double-check. When not mentioned, adhere to the AP Stylebook. ) or KANSAS CITY, MO. After Jun 3, 2025 · Written style is the aspect of the GSA Web Style Guide that includes guidance about all aspects of digital writing and text, including that specific to GSA, but also including AP style references. What AP Style Datelines Suggests? Dateline is a line at the beginning of a news article that depicts when and where the article has been written Oct 28, 2024 · There are a few specific rules to write 'United States' within sentences. Learn the proper usage, common mistakes to avoid, and tips for consistency in formatting, enhancing your writing with this indispensable reference for editors and writers. territory abbreviations Chicago style: Spell out in most cases. One crucial aspect it covers is state abbreviations, which are vital for concise and clear writing, especially in news articles, reports, and other forms of professional communication. Alabama is a state with a number of postal abbreviations. If using state abbreviations to reduce redundancy (e. or Penn. After AP State Abbreviations Alabama------------- Ala. Now in its sixth edition, the Stylebook is the standard style guide for most U. Abbreviate all other states as they are listed on our AP Style State Abbreviations page. Dec 16, 2024 · AP style rules for state abbreviations: master 10 essential guidelines for accurate abbreviation usage, including postal codes, US states, and territories, to enhance writing clarity and adhere to journalistic standards. Perfect for journalists, bloggers, and professional writers. S. For example, My address is 1000 Michigan Ave. Learn the correct two-letter codes, when to use them, and how to integrate them seamlessly. (For example, KANSAS CITY, Kan. The AP Stylebook is a writing and editing reference for newsrooms, classrooms and corporate offices worldwide. The most common, such as NASA, FBI and CIA, can be used on all references. Marie (official Jan 4, 2025 · The AP style recommends using traditional state abbreviations, which are mostly two-letter abbreviations for the 50 states of the United States. with numbered addresses only. NOTE: Styles are taken from the 2017 AP Stylebook and Defense Imagery Style Guide, along with established Army Public Afairs style AR 360-1. Oct 28, 2024 · Learn AP style state abbreviations and guidelines for US states, including postal codes, territories, and proper usage in news writing, ensuring accuracy and consistency in journalistic writing styles and geographic references. If AP Dec 5, 2023 · Key Takeaways AP style abbreviations are crucial for journalists to ensure consistency and clarity in news writing. To find out more, check out our quick guide to abbreviations in AP style. PUNCTUATION: Plase one comma between the city and the state name, and another comma after the state name, unless ending a sentence or indicating a dateline: He was traveling from Nashville, Tenn. This Mar 1, 2025 · Introduction to AP Style The AP stylebook is a foundational resource for writers, editors, and journalists, offering guidelines on everything from punctuation and grammar to style and terminology. Except for the abbreviation D. This comprehensive guide covers proper formatting, common mistakes, and best practices for consistency. May 4, 2017 · U. Although some publications such as the New York Times have developed their own style guidelines, a basic knowledge of AP style is considered essential to those who want to work in print journalism. Your subscription includes the popular Ask the Editor feature, where you can ask your own questions and search thousands of past answers, and Topical Guides, offering guidance to help you write Apr 23, 2014 · The following guidance went out on the AP wire Wednesday: “Effective May 1, the AP will spell out state names in the body of stories. Sep 26, 2021 · A proofreader's guide to US state abbreviations in AP style. They include the following: AP uses different state abbreviations than the USPS does. state abbreviations In AP style, you use abbreviations for most state names when following a city name (for example, "Scranton, Pa. for Rhode Island in a story that repeatedly references the state The Associated Press Stylebook is the reference manual for AP Style. Professional journalists and communicators in business commonly write in Associated Press (AP) style of Jun 1, 2025 · Use standard state abbreviations from the AP Stylebook, not the two-letter postal codes, unless in a complete address. -Kan. Learn the correct two-letter state codes, their usage in journalism, and how to avoid common mistakes. Common abbreviations include months, days of the week, states, academic degrees, organizations, measurements, titles, time zones, business terms, government agencies, and miscellaneous terms. ASSOCIATED PRESS (AP) STYLE GUIDELINES By Leslie Young All information taken from the Associated Press Stylebook and Briefing on Media Law State Name Guidelines: STANDING ALONE: Spell out the names of the 50 states when they stand alone in the text. AP Style uses two-letter abbreviations but not those used by the U. Understanding and correctly using AP Style state abbreviations Sep 22, 2020 · According to the Associated Press style guide, some American cities are considered well-known enough they don’t need a state abbreviation. 10. What is a Dateline? How do you write cities in AP style? Put the city name in CAPITAL LETTERS, usually followed by the state, country or territory where the city is located. The Associated Press Stylebook says that in situations other than mailing addresses, the traditional state abbreviations should be used. In most cases, however, the stylebook suggests using a generic reference such as the agency or the alliance Here’s an example of abbreviating a state in a sentence in AP style: If necessary, use the state abbreviation instead of the US postal code. Oct 2, 2013 · The form depends on which style guide you adhere to and why the state is being referenced. According to AP style, Miss, Tennes, and Cal are the other possible answers that are not accurate. Below is a comprehensive guide to AP Style state abbreviations, along with key rules and exceptions. See state names; datelines; and individual entries. Jul 20, 2022 · For this AP style installment, we explore grammar basics of AP style that most writers use on a daily basis. You will see examples of this abbreviation written both ways, with periods (U. In most cases, however, the stylebook suggests using a generic reference such as the agency or the alliance Homepage | Boston University Oct 27, 2024 · Master AP Style State Abbreviations with our simplified guide for writers. Abbreviations and Acronyms As a general rule, use only commonly recognized abbreviations. Details about how to refer to states follow. , “CA” for California, “NY” for New York) are sometimes confused with AP abbreviations. AP Stylebook Online builds on everything that’s in the print Stylebook, and makes it a more comprehensive, convenient resource. ? * It’s a topical quiz for copy editors in a week where the Associated Press is changing a long-time style rule about how to render state names. (See AP Stylebook for full listing of acceptable state abbreviations) 10. See the complete list of US two-letter postal abbreviations. Perfect for writers, editors, and professionals seeking clarity on state abbreviations and AP Style conventions. It is U. This Web page is intended to Jun 6, 2024 · State abbreviations in AP style differ from the two-letter ZIP code abbreviations. , R- Mont. Mar 22, 2017 · abbreviations, acronyms - In general, avoid abbreviations or acronyms that the reader would not quickly recognize. -Not- EDGARTOWN, Martha’s Vineyard. Jan 2, 2025 · The AP Stylebook is a widely used reference guide in journalism and writing, providing guidelines for consistency in style, usage, and terminology. Specify the island in the text if needed. Never abbreviate Fort or Mount, but do abbreviate St. , Blvd. The table below shows the US Postal Service (USPS) abbreviation for each of the United States, districts, territories, and possessions. One of its key components is the standardized list of state abbreviations, which helps maintain consistency across different publications and media outlets. Marie. Use the state abbreviations (not the postal abbreviations) indicated below in lists, tabular material, and short-form listings of party affiliation: D-Conn. The AP Stylebook states to not follow an organization’s full name with an abbreviation or acronym in parenthesis or set off by dashes. What are the state abbreviations, after all? U. May 7, 2009 · The Associated Press was founded more than 150 years ago and now has thousands of employees working in more than a hundred countries for a readership that numbers in the millions. For your reference, we've also included a link to the official government website, the "old style" state abbreviation and the capital. State names can be abbreviated when used as part of a short-form political affiliation. The Stylebook is organized like a dictionary, and it contains entries that provide correct spellings, capitalization, and usage with examples. For example: Incorrect (Postal): “She lives ABBREVIATIONS REQUIRED: Use the state abbreviations listed at the end of this section in conjunction with the name of a city, county, town or village in text. Spell out on first reference with the abbreviation in parenthesis. Master this critical aspect of professional writing to ensure accuracy and maintain reader trust across all publications. g. Eight states are never abbreviated except in full addresses: Alaska, Hawaii Apr 9, 2024 · Master AP Style formatting for press releases with Newswire. Nov 21, 2024 · In AP Style, state abbreviations are used in specific contexts, primarily in datelines and short-form addresses. Oct 29, 2024 · AP Style datelines are used to specify the location and date at the beginning of a news article. Perfect for Jun 15, 2023 · What style guides say The online AP Stylebook says “Uses periods in the abbreviation. May 25, 2025 · Master AP Style state abbreviations with this up-to-date 2025 guide. In this post, we will summarize all of the AP Stylebook state abbreviations rules. When the formal street name appears without a numbered address, however, you should spell out the full name and capitalize it. , COL for colonel in the Army, CMDR for Navy commander–that vary widely from AP Style. Many newspapers, magazines and public relations offices across the United States use AP style. The peace accord Mar 17, 2025 · Discover the essential AP Style State Abbreviations with our quick guide. is the appropriate state abbreviation for states included inside body text. Alaska This article has a chart that includes the AP style abbreviations List of U. , Sen. Per updated AP style, the names of the 50 U. Check the AP Stylebook. — Oct. Learn how to correctly abbreviate U. Jul 8, 2023 · The general rule is to omit periods in an abbreviation with two or more capital letters. ” You will still use abbreviations in datelines, photo Jan 26, 2025 · Master AP Style state abbreviations with our comprehensive guide. I. [17] However, the Chicago Manual of Style now recommends use of the uppercase two-letter abbreviations, with the traditional forms as an option. , Reps. However some people prefer to use the older style of the AP State Abbreviations or old state abbreviations. , and Sens. Spell out state names when the city or town is not in the same state as the dateline, or where necessary to avoid confusion: Portland, Oregon, or Portland, Maine. AP style prioritizes consistency, clarity, accuracy, and brevity and avoids stereotyping subjects and using offensive language. ” Foreign The first source for the spelling of all Apr 8, 2025 · Master AP Style State Abbreviations with our comprehensive guide. Less well-known but still common ones such as OSHA and NATO can be used after you spell out the full name on first mention. ” But, abbreviate “Sault Sainte Marie” as “Sault Ste. Alaska --------------- Alaska May 21, 2009 · STATES: The names of certain states and the United States are abbreviated with periods in some circumstances. When the name of a city and state are used together, the name of the state should be abbreviated (except for Alaska, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Ohio, Texas and Utah). The Associated Press (AP) Stylebook provides clear guidelines for abbreviating U. newspapers, magazines and public relations firms. Apr 28, 2025 · Use Periods In general, newspaper style guides in the United States (in particular, the "Associated Press Stylebook" (AP) and "The New York Times Manual of Style and Usage") recommend U. Jul 5, 2023 · The AP Stylebook mandates the use of periods in running text (U. states, territories, and military postal abbreviations, ensuring your content adheres to Associated Press standards and enhances readability. AP State Abbreviations Alabama------------- Ala. , and St. ) may be written with or without periods, depending on the style you follow, while EU is always written without internal periods. However, this can disrupt the flow of the content. states should be spelled out when used in the body of a story, whether standing alone or in conjunction with a city or town. M. AP style: Do not abbreviate any of these, including datelines. The Associated Press Stylebook provides an alphabetized list of over 5,000 guidelines for AP Style State Abbreviations If you want to know all about the AP style state abbreviations, you have been a wise soul to click on this article! Before we begin to enlist the abbreviations, it is mandatory for one to learn and garner information about what AP is, with a brief, supplementary note on the history of the same. The basic AP Style rules for geographic names are below. Discover how to avoid common pitfalls and ensure consistency in your writing. A basic working knowledge of AP Style is essential, but the book serves as a useful companion for journalists, writers, editors, and students while they compose their writing. Also, this resource identifies state abbreviations. ” AP style seems to allow for multiple space-saving adaptations for headlines—like using numerals in headlines, but spelling out numbers under 10 in the body of the text. Learn the essential rules of AP Style formatting & make sure your content stands out. Homepage | Boston University Oct 27, 2024 · Master AP Style State Abbreviations with our simplified guide for writers. For instance, California is abbreviated as Calif. Address Abbreviations Use the address abbreviations Ave. Sep 25, 2024 · Learn AP style state abbreviations, including postal codes and US state abbreviations, to master journalistic writing with accurate US state names and abbreviations in AP format. ABBREVIATIONS REQUIRED: Use the state abbreviations listed at the end of this section: --In conjunction with the name of a city, town, village or military base in text. Oct 31, 2019 · DARKHOLLOW, Neb. Find out those rules in AP Style with examples. Subscribe to AP Stylebook Online: AP Stylebook Online is a searchable, customizable guide for writers and editors that is updated throughout the year. Mar 14, 2015 · Here’s an example of how to abbreviate a state in a sentence using AP style: In Detroit, Mich. Jun 16, 2024 · AP style rules for abbreviations are plentiful and full of exceptions. C. Feb 21, 2025 · Discover essential guidelines for using state abbreviations in AP Style to avoid common errors and boost your writing's credibility. The Associated Press Stylebook, first published in 1977, clarified the news organization's rules on grammar, spelling, punctuation and usage. Oct 12, 2023 · A guide covering the most salient points of AP Style's approach to key editorial issues. Apr 6, 2025 · Learn AP style state abbreviations for accurate writing, including postal codes, US state abbreviations, and geographical terminology to enhance your writing skills and adhere to Associated Press stylebook guidelines for consistent and precise communication. Follow this same practice for communities on islands within the boundaries of other states. No Comma After State/State Abbreviation AP Style states: The AP Stylebook asks for a comma after both the city and state (or state abbreviation) when the two are used together in a sentence. Use “Hawaii” on all cities outside Honolulu. Jan 1, 2023 · According to the AP Stylebook, Wyoming's Wyo. For example, EDGARTOWN, Mass. ” However, “In headlines, it’s US (no periods). Only abbreviate in tabular matter if there is no possibility of confusion. However, the Department of Defense uses the AP Stylebook’s military titles in news releases because the abbreviations are more easily understood. List of state abbreviations for all the US states, US territories and the United States military. To make matters worse, some well-respected style guides recommend the first style, and others prefer the second Homepage | Boston University Oct 27, 2024 · Master AP Style State Abbreviations with our simplified guide for writers. John's, Newfoundland. Place one comma between the city and Mar 14, 2015 · Here’s an example of how to abbreviate a state in a sentence using AP style: In Detroit, Mich. Question When to use "US" and when to use "U. ), and without (US). Alaska --------------- Alaska Jun 4, 2009 · Memory Aid: Spell out the names of the two states that are not part of the contiguous United States and of the continental states that are five letters or fewer. Starting on May 1, the AP will change from abbreviating most states names Study with Quizlet and memorize flashcards containing terms like Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas and more. This guide covers everything you need to know about formatting press release datelines according to AP Style standards. Y. The abbreviation US (or U. Here are all the AP abbreviations and AP Stylebook quick reference The following resource provides standardized guidance to Army Public Affairs professionals on writing articles and captions, as well as entering metadata associated Jan 25, 2025 · Master AP Style state abbreviations with our essential guide. Exceptions: Use AP Style state abbreviations in the magazine and, if desired, in brochures, posters, etc. AP Style holds that you should use Rep. state names, ensuring consistency and clarity in journalistic writing. (periods, no space). If your publisher prefers traditional abbreviations, do not abbreviate most of these. , the weather today is sunny and warm. AP State Abbreviations - Old State Abbreviations The two letter, no-period state abbreviations recommended by the U. Learn the correct usage of two-letter state codes, avoid common errors, and ensure your writing adheres to professional standards. AP style is designed to address the challenges of the organization’s large size and readership. It had to be easy for Even more than this, each service branch has its own systems of abbreviating officer and enlisted ranks–e. AP Style holds that you should use periods in the abbreviation for United States within text. Study with Quizlet and memorize flashcards containing terms like Alaska, Hawaii, Idaho and more. It’s often used by news organizations, magazines, and web publications, but brands often use it to form the basis of their own style guides, too. DETROIT, March 14, 2015 – Remember that, in datelines, the city name is in all capital letters. ) Alaska, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Ohio, Texas, and Utah are all spelled out. This standardization is particularly The Associated Press Stylebook offers guidelines for news writing. (For example Associated Press (AP) style is used by most newspapers, magazines, and public relations departments in the United States and serves as the standard for writing in journalism. Periods are omitted in British style, as recommended by the New Oxford Style Manual, BBC News style guide, and Guardian and Observer style guide. The Official CORE Support documentation site of the U. It goes on to say that if an abbreviation or acronym would not otherwise be clear upon its second reference, do not use it. Postal Service should always be used where a ZIP code follows. This The Associated Press Stylebook states that in contexts other than mailing addresses, the traditional state abbreviations should be used. Many public relations offices and publications, such as magazines and newspapers, use AP style as a standardized writing style. Postal Service. Sep 2, 2025 · Click Purdue University for information regarding 30 cities that can be mentioned without the requirement of a state name. Get format tips, real examples, and expert advice to enhance your PR strategy. The Chicago Manual of Style and The Associated Press Stylebook agree on one thing: When referring to a state on its own, spell the state name out (“California became a state in 1850”). when it follows Washington, which may be used at any time, use the abbreviations for states and provinces only in lists, maps, charts, addresses, and informal writing. 28. Army. for Saint in most cases such as St. This comprehensive resource simplifies AP Style rules, ensuring accuracy in your writing. , R. Learn the correct two-letter codes, their usage in journalism, and common pitfalls to avoid. These abbreviations are used in various contexts, including news articles, official documents, and formal correspondence. 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