How To Write Dates AP Style: A Comprehensive Guide
Alright, let’s dive into the world of Associated Press (AP) Style for writing dates. Getting dates right is crucial for clear and professional communication, whether you’re crafting a news report, writing a business document, or contributing to a blog. This guide will break down everything you need to know to master AP Style for dates, ensuring your writing is accurate, consistent, and polished.
The Foundation: Understanding AP Style’s Date Rules
AP Style aims for brevity and clarity. This approach translates directly into how dates are formatted. The goal is to provide the most important information in the most concise way. The core principles governing date writing in AP Style are straightforward, but adhering to them consistently is key. Let’s get started.
Month-Day Format: The Standard Approach
The standard format for dates in AP Style is Month Day. You don’t include the “th,” “rd,” “st,” or “nd” after the day. For example:
- Incorrect: May 12th
- Correct: May 12
This is the most common and preferred method for most contexts.
When to Include the Year: Specific Guidelines
The year is only included when the event occurred in a year different from the current year. If you’re writing about something happening this year, you generally don’t need to include the year. Consider these examples:
- Correct (Current Year): The meeting is scheduled for June 15.
- Correct (Past Year): The company was founded on May 1, 2005.
This rule keeps your writing concise and focused.
Including the Year in News Stories
In news stories, the year is often included when the date is the first mention of the event. Subsequent mentions within the same story can omit the year if it’s clear from the context.
Abbreviating Months: A Handy Trick
AP Style offers a streamlined approach to abbreviating months. Certain months are abbreviated when used with a specific date (e.g., “Jan. 1,” “Sept. 15”). Here’s a breakdown:
- Months That Are Always Abbreviated: Jan., Feb., Aug., Sept., Oct., Nov., Dec.
- Months That Are Never Abbreviated: March, April, May, June, July
Always use periods after the abbreviations. This consistent approach ensures clarity and professionalism.
Exceptions to the Abbreviation Rule
While the general rule applies, there are exceptions. For example, when a month stands alone (e.g., “The conference will be held in May.”), it should not be abbreviated. Also, never abbreviate a month when combined with a day and year: “May 12, 2023.”
Dates in Context: Using Dates in Sentences
Integrating dates smoothly into your sentences is just as important as knowing the format. Consider the following examples:
Incorrect: The report was released on the 15th of May.
Correct: The report was released on May 15.
Incorrect: On May 12th, 2023, the company announced…
Correct: On May 12, 2023, the company announced…
Pay close attention to the flow of your sentences and avoid awkward phrasing.
Time-Sensitive Information: Handling Deadlines and Future Events
When dealing with deadlines or future events, clarity is paramount. Make sure the date is easily identifiable.
- Example: The application deadline is Oct. 31.
- Example: The event is scheduled for Dec. 2, 2024.
Using precise dates ensures readers understand the relevant timelines.
Specifying Time: Including Hours and Minutes
If you need to include a specific time, use the following format:
- Example: The meeting will begin at 2 p.m.
- Example: The press conference is scheduled for 10 a.m.
Use lowercase letters with periods for a.m. and p.m.
Ranges of Dates: Representing a Period of Time
When representing a period of time, use an en dash (–), not a hyphen, between the dates.
- Example: The conference will be held from June 10–12.
- Example: He served as CEO from 2010–2015.
This formatting provides a visual distinction, making the range clear.
Avoiding Common Mistakes: Pitfalls to Watch Out For
Several common mistakes can undermine your writing. Here are some things to watch out for:
- Incorrect Use of Commas: Don’t use a comma between the month and day when the year is not included.
- Mixing Styles: Don’t mix AP Style with other styles. Be consistent throughout your document.
- Inconsistencies: Ensure you apply the rules consistently. Inconsistencies can make your writing look unprofessional.
Being vigilant about these common errors will improve your writing significantly.
Dates in Different Media: Adapting to Various Platforms
While the core principles remain consistent, minor adaptations may be necessary depending on the platform.
- Websites and Blogs: Maintain the AP Style standards, but consider the readability of your audience.
- Social Media: Character limits may necessitate even greater brevity, but accuracy remains important.
Always prioritize clarity and consistency.
Beyond Dates: Other AP Style Essentials
Mastering dates is a crucial first step in adopting AP Style. Remember that AP Style covers a wide range of topics, including punctuation, capitalization, and word usage. Continually familiarize yourself with the style guide to improve your writing.
Frequently Asked Questions: Addressing Common Queries
Here are some FAQs to further clarify the rules of AP style for dates:
What about dates that span across multiple years?
When referring to a date range that crosses over into a different year, write the entire date, “December 30, 2023-January 2, 2024.”
How do I handle decades?
For decades, use the format “the 1990s,” not “the 1990’s” or “the ’90s.”
When do I use “on” before a date?
Typically, use “on” before dates, such as “The event is scheduled on July 4th.”
How should I write the date when including both the day and the time?
Use the format “Monday, May 15, 2023, at 2 p.m.”
What is the best resource for AP style?
The Associated Press Stylebook is the definitive resource. You can access it online or in print.
Conclusion: Mastering AP Style for Dates
In conclusion, mastering AP Style for dates is essential for clear, concise, and professional communication. By understanding the core principles – the month-day format, the rules for including the year, the abbreviation guidelines, and the importance of context – you can ensure your writing is accurate and polished. Consistent application of these rules is key. By carefully following these guidelines, you’ll improve your writing and project a professional image. Remember to keep practicing, and consult the AP Stylebook for any questions that may arise.