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Last Seven Days

Question from Pahrump, Nevada, on Nov. 1, 2025

Headline question: 
I've been seeing these constructions that read to me as comma splices. Is this acceptable under AP headline style, or should we rewrite with an em dash, semicolon or period? I've been updating them to that.

Examples: 

X is in the top 10 best cities in the US, see where

X's first frost is significantly delayed, here's how it affects wildlife, recreation


I would like to create a consistent rule if there is one, or redirect people to the correct format. Thanks!

Answer

I agree, this is poor sentence construction. I'd use a period. 

Question from Arizent - Financial Planning, on Oct. 31, 2025

If someone tacks on the word "right" at the end of a sentence, what's the best way to handle that? For example: "We all need to get along, right?" Or is it technically two sentences — one a declaration, and the question follows? "We all need to get along. Right?"

Answer

I'd use the comma. It more closely follows the way I assume the person said it. 

Question from Washington, District of Columbia, on Oct. 30, 2025

I work for a non-profit organization that deals extensively in legislation, and we reoutinely publish newsletters for our members and press releases in accordance with AP Style. I understand that full bill names are not usually spelled out in favor of a longer explanation of what the legislation/bill would do. How would bill names and numbers be written if it was a requirement, as it is for our organization? We often reference bills that are in congress as well as those that have already become law.

Answer

Follow the style used by the legislative body. 

Question from ALBANY, New York, on Oct. 30, 2025

"Correction officer" is the official title for those who work in security positions in state prisons and county jails. Is "guard" acceptable or is it similar to referring to police officers "cops," which AP says should be avoided in news stories and is considered derogatory. 

Answer

Guards is fine as a general term. It's has the added benefit of being much more conversational than "correction officer." 

Question from Walnut Creek, California, on Oct. 29, 2025

Answer

We recommend FAQ (no "s") in the singular. Add the "s" in plural uses, to be clear it's two different FAQs. 

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