Acronyms

On First Reference

Spell out uncommon acronyms (phrases or names of entities, organizations, franchises, departments, etc.) when you first reference them. Do not follow the spelled-out names or phrases with an acronym in parentheses or set off by dashes or commas.

On Second Reference

You may use the acronym (or initials of phrases or names of entities) on second reference only if you think your reader will understand the abbreviation(s). When in doubt, it’s best to use the full name or full phrase.

Examples:

Right

1. The College of Humanities and Social Sciences will host a meet-and-greet to help CHSS students build a relationship with their advisors.
2. The Society of Professional Journalists lists resources for media professionals on their website. Students can turn to the SPJ’s website for workshops, events, and tips.
3. The Associated Press Style is the gold-standard for news writing. The Dateline’s former editor, Indira Zaldivar, loves to teach AP style.

Wrong

1. The College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS) will host a meet-and-greet to help CHSS students build a relationship with their advisors.
2. The Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) lists resources for media professionals on their website.
3. The Associated Press (AP) Style is the gold-standard for news writing.