Chicago Manual Of Style--easy way out?

Cate · May 30, 2007

Hey all--

I almost always write in the AP style and the pubs I write for all go that route too...

I have a BIG article I am writing--they use the Chicago Manual of Style--I have one, but was wondering if anyone would be willing to point out some of the biggest differences they have noticed? Only if you have time....

Figure this might also be helpful to others out there, which is my #2 reason for posting it.

Thanks for any thoughts in advance...I'm perfectly willing to (and am going to) look everything up, but wanted to be "on the lookout" for any major differences from those who write in that style primarily....

It will help to know those from the start.

alleycat · May 30, 2007

I'm no expert, but here's a couple of difference (I think):

AP doesn't use serial commas, CMS does (Bob, Pete and Brenda vs. Bob, Pete, and Brenda).

AP uses only an apostrophe after a proper name ending in "s", while CMS uses an apostrophe and an "s" (Jones' house vs. Jones's).

Again, I'm no expert. Others might be more familiar with the differences than I am. I could be wrong about the above.

Jamesaritchie · May 30, 2007

Chicago

I think Chicago was once a pretty good style manual. I also think recent editions stink. My big problem with recent editions of Chicago isn't so much any direct differences, but that Chicago is wishy-washy and all too often say do whatever you want.

Cate · May 30, 2007

You aren't kidding about that--I did pick that up when I was flipping through to acquaint myself...found it rather annoying!

Chicago Manual Of Style--easy way out?

Cate

Never Bored

alleycat

Still around

Jamesaritchie

Cate

Never Bored