Can't We All Just Get Along? Merging Stylebook Mentors

By LinDee Rochelle, 2007
Owner, Penchant for Penning

Inquiry:  I was taught smart writers use the AP Stylebook for reference; but my employer (or editor) insists the Chicago Manual of Style should have the final word. I’m so confused ...

 

Tip:  This controversy has fostered more than one feisty debate. And adding fuel to the fire is a number of other respectable writing style tomes, but these two lead the way. Both books have their vehement advocates and passionate detractors. However, just as in playing “keep-away,” the kid in the middle loses until a crafty look comes into the eye and a strategy formulates to outwit the blokes on either side -- the smart writer uses both, regardless of whether you write fiction or non-fiction.		      

I was introduced to the AP Stylebook (published by the Associated Press) in college because I worked on the school paper and it’s the standard for journalism. However, there are some situations not addressed in the AP book ... then what? And when it comes to books, which is best for the book author?

 

After much research and discussion, I’ve found the general rule of thumb is to use the AP Stylebook for non-fiction works and the Chicago Manual of Style (a product of the University of Chicago Press) for fiction. Does that solve all your grammar and punctuation problems? Hmmmmmm ... not really.

 

You see, the AP book, while comprehensive and easy to navigate in 400+ pages, cannot possibly compare to the in-depth analyses of the Chicago Manual, weighing in at a hefty 900+ pages. So really, let’s find a middle ground and unless they argue vehemently over a point, make it personal preference – and consult the Chicago Manual especially when the AP runs out of options.

 

If you’re not using any reference, except online research, it could be one reason why you’re not seeing publishing success with your writing. If you don’t like to edit your own work, then be smart and hire an editor! If you simply haven’t known which book to settle with and you can swing the double cost, buy both. If not, consider the type of writing you are doing, to make a purchasing choice.

 

Are you setting writing style guidelines for your company? Again, consider using both books, then tailor your guidelines to suit your business. You know, absolutely nothing is set in stone ... that’s where we writers get our flexibility ... I mean gosh, gee whiz and shucks ... where would we be without localisms and styles that fit our respective industries?

 

A couple of points to keep in mind:

-          Most newspapers follow The Associated Press down their yellow brick road, so if you’re appealing to the mass market in a non-fiction, you may want to pick up their book first.

 

-          Besides the fiction market, do you see your books or articles appealing to academia? They’re close-up-and-personal with the Chicago Manual, of course. This one might be your good first – perhaps only, writing bible. Though it may take an advanced degree or two to maneuver through its pages.

 

-          Working on a PC for your word processing, are ya? Well ... Microsoft programmers must have read the newspaper a lot, ‘cause they favor the AP style and if you don’t re-set your options, it’s liable to play editor in that format, whether you like it or not.

 

-          And one last wobbly word of caution -- whatever your style, don’t wander all over the road! Consistency is a prosperous path of travel ensuring a classy vehicle for your work. Whether it’s working with elusive ellipses, capitalizing pompous titles, or trying to remember where the quotation marks make sense, do it all the same way ... maybe no one will notice your mistake.

 

And remember: Write first for yourself ... only then can you write for others.