No, emails themselves aren’t getting shorter (although that might be a good idea in some cases!). But the Associated Press announced today that the word “e-mail” will officially become “email” in the online edition of the AP Stylebook.
The change will be made immediately in the online version and also be reflected in the print version when the 2011 edition is published in June.
Last year’s big change was “Web site” to “website”–although I’ve used both in the past because one client always insists on the first version. Now if they would officially lose the hyphen in e-book, I’d be all set…
The AP Stylebook is essentially the bible for any type of news, PR and marketing writing. If you ever have grammar, punctuation and usage questions for the writing you do in your business, this is the place to go. The guide also covers specific types of writing (such as sports and legal) and media law.
Unlike other style and grammar books, the AP book’s dictionary format makes it easier to find what you’re looking for.
But while I’m a big fan of the AP Stylebook, I also believe it’s good to break some of the grammar and punctuation “rules” to make your sales copy sound more like something your reader would actually say.
Writing that’s more conversational goes a long way toward building the know, like and trust factor. It also makes your writing faster and easier to read, which is always a good thing given how limited everyone’s time and attention is these days.
But the bottom line is you never want to sacrifice clarity. After all, following or not following the “rules” is a moot point if your copy leaves the reader scratching their head about what you’re trying to say.
