We've done our best to make SSAT's editorial standards an easy-to-access document. The PDF format has a clickable index and links throughout, and all style rules are listed alphabetically. Still, I think any house style document takes a bit of getting used to.
If you're using a style guide for the first time, here's a few tips to get started.
- Skim the whole document once to familiarise yourself with the layout.
- While you're skimming, pick out one style issue you learn for the first time. Write it down on a Post-it note.
- Think of the one style rule you always need to check, or can never remember. Look it up and write down what you find.
- Identify 3 style issues that most affect your own work. Look them up and write them down too.
- Your Post-it note should now have 5 rules on it. Stick it somewhere visible on your desk as a handy guide.
Remember: using editorial standards makes our writing more consistent, helps the organisation to appear more professional and can save you time!
