Editorial Style
Following NC State's editorial style lends your writing a professional sheen and ensures a consistent experience for all of our readers.
Clear, Consistent Writing
Editorial style is a set of rules that tells you what to do when there's more than one "correct" way to write something. Examples include determining which words to capitalize in a headline or when to spell out a number versus using a numeral. Without a clear-cut set of style guidelines, writers often address these situations in inconsistent and contradictory ways, which undermines their credibility.
NC State’s editorial style is based on The Associated Press Stylebook, with exceptions and additions as noted below. When AP style conflicts with NC State's own guidelines, you should follow the latter. To resolve questions of spelling, AP recommends using Merriam-Webster.
You should follow these rules far more often than not. However, situations may arise when bending a rule makes more sense than following it. Clarity and consistency are the most important considerations.
Use the search bar or index to find a specific editorial style reference.
Shrine Room
The Shrine Room is located in the base of NC State’s Belltower. In a long-standing campus tradition, the class rings of graduating seniors spend a night locked in the Shrine Room before being given to their new owners.
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
This is the body that grants accreditation to NC State University. On second reference, use SACS.
Stewart Theatre
This performance venue, located on the third floor of Talley Student Union, is operated by University Theatre, a division of Arts NC State. Stewart Theatre seats 759 patrons.
Student Aid Association
This organization provides private financial support for athletics scholarships and facilities at NC State. Its unofficial name is the Wolfpack Club. These two names can be used interchangeably.
student-athlete
Hyphenate the term when referring to a student who participates on one or more of NC State’s 22 NCAA Division I varsity athletics teams.