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AP Style – Recent Biggest Hits (And Some New Ones for 2020)

In the world of public relations, yearly AP Stylebook changes are to be expected. Whether you’re looking for a refresher or crash course, The Firm has done its best to help your business stay on top of AP Style grammar dos and don’ts (see our fun graphic capturing nine of our most recent tips).

Also, say hello to a quick list of AP Style guide changes to keep in mind for 2020 and beyond:

  • The percentage sign (%) should be used when paired with a numeral, with no space. In casual uses, it is still appropriate to use the word percent, rather than the sign. Example: The cost of flights rose 50% for the holidays so there’s a zero percent chance he’s going to make it.
  • Drop the hyphen! In terms such as “African American”, “Asian American” and “Filipino American” a hyphen is no longer necessary to separate racial and ethnic identifiers.
  • According to the AP Stylebook, the term electronic cigarette should be used first and the term e-cigarette is acceptable on the second reference. Furthermore, the correct term is vaping device, not vape device. Do not use e-cig ever when referring to a “battery-operated device that typically heats a flavored nicotine solution into vapor.”

Stay up to date with AP Style on The Firm’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages, where we frequently share helpful tips and tricks. For additional PR guidance for your business, give us a shout at 702.739.9933 or newbusiness@thefirmpr.com.

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The Firm has played an invaluable role as the NHBC established itself in 2020. As our board and limited staff moved toward the groundbreaking of our first project, The Firm team planned effortlessly with the NHBC and our partner, the UNLV School of Medicine to announce not only our organization but a project that will assist to buoy and progress academic medicine and health care in our community.

Maureen ShaferPresident and CEONevada Health and Bioscience Corporation (NHBC)