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Grammar Girl Lays Out New AP Style Rules for Writing About AI and More

Written by: Chris Porter / AIwithChris

Importance of Good Writing

Image source: prdaily.com

Navigating the New AP Style Guidelines: A Focus on AI

Evolving with the times, the Associated Press (AP) has introduced significant updates to its style guidelines, particularly regarding the burgeoning field of artificial intelligence (AI). As AI technologies become more integrated into our daily lives, journalists and writers face the challenge of addressing these advancements appropriately. Mignon Fogarty, famously known as Grammar Girl, has meticulously outlined these new guidelines, which aim to foster clarity and inclusivity in language.



The expansion of the AP Stylebook now includes specific regulations for writing about AI. A pivotal aspect of these guidelines is the admonition against attributing human characteristics or emotions to AI systems. This change is essential for accurately portraying the capabilities and limitations of AI. After all, AI tools are developed by humans, inherently carrying the influences and biases of their creators. This guidance urges writers to be cautious about suggesting that AI can think, feel, or possess consciousness in the human sense, thereby fostering a more nuanced understanding of how these technologies function.



Furthermore, the AP Stylebook advises against using gendered pronouns when discussing AI. This directive promotes inclusivity and avoids the pitfalls associated with assuming gender identity or ascribing traditionally human characteristics to non-human entities. Writers are encouraged to utilize neutral terms to describe these systems, focusing instead on their functionality and purpose. For example, rather than referring to an AI as “he” or “she,” simply stating “the AI” is more appropriate and accurate.



This focus on language reflects an increasing recognition of the complexities surrounding AI, particularly in terms of how it interacts with societal norms and biases. As media portrayals of AI continue to evolve, adhering to these new guidelines will help prevent misinformation and offer readers a clearer perspective.



Punctuation Rules: Hyphens and Dashes

The AP Stylebook has also revised its punctuation rules, paying particular attention to hyphens and dashes. These small but crucial marks play significant roles in clarifying meaning and improving readability in journalistic writing. Understanding the correct use of hyphens and dashes can elevate writing and ensure clarity in communication.



Hyphens serve to join words or indicate a range, such as in the expressions “long-term care” or “Sept. 1-3.” They act to connect parts of words or compound phrases, thereby creating coherence in the text. Writers should pay close attention to instances where hyphenation can avoid ambiguity. For example, “small-business owner” carries a different meaning than “small business owner,” making hyphen usage crucial for conveying accurate information.



Dashes, specifically the em dash (—), present another layer of nuance in writing. Used for creating a strong sense of separation or emphasis, dashes require spaces on either side when utilized. For instance, a sentence like: “He listed the qualities — intelligence, humor, conservatism, independence — that he valued in an executive,” highlights the attributes more effectively than commas might. This use of dashes ensures that the reader clearly understands the emphasis intended by the writer.



By effectively implementing these punctuation guidelines, writers can enhance the clarity of their work, making it more accessible and enjoyable for readers.



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Understanding Pronouns: The Shift to Inclusivity

In an interconnected world, language continues to evolve, reflecting changing cultural attitudes and promoting inclusivity. The latest AP style guidelines reflect this, particularly through updates regarding the use of pronouns. Accepting the singular "they" as a gender-neutral pronoun showcases a broader acceptance of diverse gender identities while maintaining clarity in communication.



The recognition of the singular “they” as an acceptable pronoun is significant. This shift not only acknowledges varying gender identities but also helps to reduce misgendering in writing. By using “they” as a default when gender is unknown or irrelevant, writers can ensure that discussions remain respectful and inclusive.



However, it's crucial for writers to remain aware of other emerging pronouns in society, such as “ze” or “zir.” Despite growing discussions around these terms, the AP advises against using them in journalistic writing. The reasoning behind this guidance centers on the limited usage of these pronouns and the potential confusion they may introduce to readers. Ultimately, utilizing widely recognized language promotes clearer communication and prevents misunderstanding, particularly in a journalistic context where precision is paramount.



These updates regarding pronoun usage are reflective of wider societal changes and the need for language to adapt to match the world we live in. As societies strive for greater inclusivity, language must follow suit, ensuring every individual feels acknowledged and respected.



Conclusion: Embracing Evolving Language Standards

The updates to the AP Stylebook, as highlighted by Grammar Girl, impress upon writers the importance of adapting language and style to align with modern realities. As the landscape of technology and social interactions continues to evolve, so must our communication guidelines.



By following these new AP style rules surrounding AI, punctuation, and pronouns, writers can foster clearer, more inclusive journalism. This not only benefits media professionals but also enriches the experience of readers who consume this content. For those interested in continuous learning and improving their writing, there are numerous resources available on this topic.
For more insightful content about AI and language, be sure to visit us at AIwithChris.com.

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