ACADEMIC
SUCCESS CENTER (ASC)

1) Before using an abbreviation, include the complete spelling of the phrase followed by the abbreviation in parenthesis.

• Only introduce an abbreviation if you will use the abbreviation at least three times in the chapter. Once the abbreviation is presented, only use the abbreviation.

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Examples:

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Abbreviation with an in-text citation:

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• The Centers for Disease Control (CDC, 2019) stated...Introduction to the term:

• Subsequent use of the term: The CDC (2019) suggests…

 

Abbreviation in Text:

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• Paid time off (PTO) is offered… Introduction to the term:

• Subsequent use of the word: Employees use PTO…

2) If an abbreviation is listed in the dictionary and the listing is not labeled "abbr," it can be used in the text without a definition. 

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Examples:

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• AIDS

• ACTH

• ESP

• HIV

3) Except for units of measurement, abbreviations can be written as singular and plural.

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Examples: 

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• An early intervention service (EIS) is... EISs are used...

4) Some abbreviations should include periods.

 

Examples: 

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• Use periods when abbreviating names: J. M. Smith

• If abbreviating the United States, abbreviate it as "U.S." only when the abbreviation is used as an adjective. If abbreviating the "United Kingdom," abbreviate it as "U.K." Examples: U.K.flag, U.S. Treasury. When referring to a county as a noun, spell out the country's name. Example: The United States is a fantastic place to live. 

• Use periods without spaces for Latin abbreviations: a.m., i.e., e.g.