HeadsUpEnglish

Inspire Through Writing, Thrive Through Living

  • Home
  • Confusing Words
  • AP Style Guide
  • Dictionary
    • Abbreviations
    • Grammar Terms
  • Business & Innovation
  • Personal Finance
  • Contact Us
    • About

AP Style Guide

Most of the newspaper, magazine and other online publication writers prefer AP Style for their publications. So, do you want an effective or effecient publication? Do you want to make your write-up a perfectly acceptable write-up?

Then, you can follow this AP Style Guide to make your writing error-free; to access acceptable grammar, spelling, usage and punctuation.

February 4, 2026 by admin

What Exchange (BTC) for (LTC) for AP Style guide

Exchanging Bitcoin (BTC) for Litecoin (LTC) is a popular option not only for the purpose of exchanging assets but also for the convenience of subsequent transactions. Bitcoin remains the primary means of storing value, but in everyday use, it often falls behind faster and cheaper networks. This is where Litecoin becomes a practical alternative.

LTC was created as a lighter and faster version of Bitcoin. It retains a similar architecture, but offers faster transactions and lower fees. Therefore, exchanging BTC for LTC is often done when the user prioritizes functionality over the investment aspect.

When does it make sense to exchange BTC for Litecoin?

BTC is most often exchanged for Litecoin (LTC) cryptocurrency for specific practical purposes. Users can store funds in Bitcoin, but for transfers, exchanges, or asset transfers between services, Litecoin is a more convenient option.

LTC is actively used when there is a need to speed up transactions, reduce costs, or temporarily migrate to a network with a lower load. Unlike Bitcoin, transactions on the LTC network are confirmed faster, making it convenient for quick transactions. Furthermore, it is often used as an intermediary asset. Users exchange BTC for Litecoin, perform the necessary transactions, and then convert back to Bitcoin or another asset if needed. This approach allows for flexible fund management without having to convert to fiat.

Why are electronic exchangers convenient for converting cryptocurrency?

When exchanging Bitcoin for Litecoin, electronic exchange services eliminate unnecessary steps and technical difficulties. This format is especially convenient when the conversion is needed quickly and with a clear result.

The main advantages of exchange services are:

  • direct BTC to LTC exchange without intermediary assets;
  • predetermined exchange rate and final amount;
  • no need to trade;
  • cryptocurrency is deposited directly into a personal wallet;
  • ease of use, even for small amounts.

As a result, electronic exchangers are becoming the optimal option for users who value simplicity and control over the process. The most important thing is to choose the right service. This is easy to do using the Bestchange platform. It features a collection of trusted resources that can be accessed with just one click. Furthermore, users can compare their terms and conditions using several parameters.

What to Consider When Converting Cryptocurrencies

When exchanging Bitcoin for Litecoin, it’s important to consider the differences between the networks. Sending Bitcoin may take longer than the subsequent crediting of LTC. This is a normal part of the process, not a delay on the service’s part. It’s also important to carefully check your Litecoin wallet address and take into account current exchange rate volatility. When using a new exchange service for the first time, it’s recommended to use a small amount for conversion to ensure all steps are completed correctly.

Filed Under: AP Style Guide

November 11, 2025 by admin

How Do We Write AIDS in AP Style?

In AP Style, AIDS stands for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, while HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. It’s important to distinguish between these two diseases, as they are not interchangeable.

AIDS In AP Style

AIDS is widely accepted acronym. It stands for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. AIDS is a serious disease which is caused by a disease named HIV.

HIV is a virus that stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus.

Note: You cannot write or say ‘HIV Virus’.

HIV Virus = Human Immunodeficiency Virus Virus (Wrong)

HIV = Human Immunodeficiency Virus (Correct)

These two diseases cannot be interchangeable. HIV and AIDS are two different diseases. You cannot mixed them up.

Unlike the other viruses like common flu or cold, HIV is such a dangerous virus that remains and never go away. A person with this particular virus, slowly and gradually, becomes severely ill; as this disease badly weakens a person’s immune system. When a person’s immune system becomes so weakened by HIV, then he or she will then diagnosed with AIDS.

Hence, HIV and AIDS are two totally different diseases. You can name AIDS as advanced HIV disease.

When to Use the Term ‘AIDS’ in AP Style

In AP Style, it’s important to use the term AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) appropriately in news reporting to ensure clarity and accuracy. Here’s how to navigate its correct use:

1. Use ‘AIDS’ When Referring to the Disease Stage

AIDS should be used to refer specifically to the advanced stage of HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) infection. It is diagnosed when a person’s immune system has been severely weakened by the HIV virus. When writing about a person who has progressed to this stage, it is appropriate to use “AIDS” to indicate the condition.

Example:

  • “The patient was diagnosed with AIDS after his immune system became critically compromised.”

2. Avoid Interchanging ‘HIV’ and ‘AIDS’

AIDS and HIV are distinct, and it’s crucial not to use the terms interchangeably. HIV refers to the virus that causes AIDS, but someone with HIV may not yet have developed AIDS. Use “HIV” when discussing the virus and “AIDS” when referring to the syndrome.

Incorrect Usage:

  • “He tested positive for AIDS.” (This implies the person has the syndrome, but not necessarily the virus)

Correct Usage:

  • “He tested positive for HIV, but does not yet have AIDS.”

3. Use ‘AIDS’ to Refer to the Final Stages of HIV

AIDS is typically the term used to describe the later, more severe stages of HIV infection. It’s when the individual’s immune system becomes dangerously weak, making them susceptible to opportunistic infections. In news reporting, it is important to specify this stage to highlight the severity of the disease progression.

Example:

  • “After living with HIV for many years, she was diagnosed with AIDS, making her vulnerable to other infections.”

4. Avoid Using ‘AIDS’ in a Broad, General Sense

When referring to HIV, avoid using “AIDS” unless discussing the specific syndrome stage. HIV is an ongoing infection that doesn’t necessarily lead to AIDS if properly treated. Therefore, “AIDS” should be used only in contexts where the progression to the syndrome is relevant to the story.

Incorrect Usage:

  • “There is no cure for AIDS.” (If talking about the virus itself, this is misleading)

Correct Usage:

  • “There is no cure for HIV, but treatments can prevent it from progressing to AIDS.”

Check Out: Prognosis vs Diagnosis.

What Did You Learn?

In summary, “AIDS” should be used carefully in AP Style to distinguish it from HIV. It’s the term for the advanced stage of HIV infection and should only be used to refer to a person whose immune system is significantly weakened. It’s essential to use both terms, HIV and AIDS, correctly to avoid confusion and to provide clear, accurate reporting.

Filed Under: AP Style Guide

November 11, 2025 by admin

How Do We Write A.D. and B.C. in AP Style?

In AP Style, “A.D.” and “B.C.” are used to indicate specific periods in the Gregorian calendar. “A.D.” (Anno Domini) is placed before the year, while “B.C.” (Before Christ) is written after the year.

A.D. and B.C. are both abbreviations. A.D. is the abbreviation for anno Domini while B.C. is the abbreviation for before Christ. Both are widely accepted abbreviations that refers to specific calendar years.

Use of A.D.

The abbreviation A.D. for anno Domini means ‘in the year of the Lord’. If you are referring A.D. with a year specified, then you should write A.D. before that figure. For example,

• They ruled in the A.D. 740s.

Use of B.C.

The abbreviation B.C. refers to the years before Christ. Unlike A.D., if you are referring B.C. with a year specified, then you should write B.C. after that figure. For example,

• Some recent research suggests that the dating of Herod’s death might be up for debate and could be dated 1 B.C. (Bill Petro)

Notes:

  • It is assumed to be A.D. or B.C. if there is no reference to any specific year after A.D. or before B.C.
  • You cannot write ‘in the fifth century A.D.’ Simply, write ‘in the fifth century’ (without mentioning A.D.).
  • However, in the above case, you should mention B.C. (i.e., 21st century B.C.).

When to Omit “A.D.” and “B.C.” in AP Style

These can often be omitted when referencing centuries or general time periods. For example, instead of writing “5th century A.D.,” you can simply use “5th century.”

The abbreviation is unnecessary when the century is clearly implied, and it helps to avoid redundancy. Similarly, for centuries in the B.C. era, writing “5th century B.C.” is acceptable without adding the “B.C.” after each year mentioned, as the context is clear.

Alternative Terms for “A.D.” and “B.C.” in Modern Writing

In recent years, the use of “CE” (Common Era) and “BCE” (Before Common Era) has become more popular, especially in academic and non-religious contexts. These terms are viewed as secular alternatives to “A.D.” and “B.C.” “CE” corresponds to “A.D.,” and “BCE” corresponds to “B.C.”

While they are widely accepted in many fields, it’s important to follow the specific guidelines of your publication or style guide. If using AP Style, “A.D.” and “B.C.” are preferred, but “CE” and “BCE” may be used if appropriate.

Check Out: How To Write Ages In AP Style?

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One of the most common mistakes when using these is incorrect placement. Remember, “A.D.” always precedes the year, such as in “A.D. 740,” while “B.C.” follows the year, like “740 B.C.”

Another common error is the unnecessary use of “A.D.” or “B.C.” when referencing centuries (e.g., “5th century A.D.”). It’s generally understood that centuries are A.D. unless specified otherwise.

Additionally, avoid redundant phrases like “HIV virus” (since HIV already stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus), as it creates repetition. Always ensure correct usage for clarity.

What Did We Learn?

According to AP Style. “A.D.” (Anno Domini) is placed before a year, while “B.C.” (Before Christ) follows the year. We also discovered that “A.D.” and “B.C.” can be omitted in certain contexts, especially when referring to centuries

Filed Under: AP Style Guide

August 28, 2025 by admin

How Do We Write Percent in AP Style?

In AP Style, the word “percent” is always spelled out, and figures are used with it, rather than the “%” symbol. This rule ensures clarity and consistency, especially in formal and news-oriented writing.

Percent is parts per hundred. It is a Latin word which means ‘per hundred’.

What AP Style Percent Suggests?

According to AP Style, you should not use the symbol (%) for percent. It is necessary to spell out the whole word and use figures with it.

For example,

• 20 percent of the students were absent yesterday.

• Do you want me to give you 30 percent of my shares?

> If there is more than one figure in a sentence then, you should repeat the word ‘percent’.

For example,

• He ordered the workers to give him 5 percent to 25 percent of their savings.

Note: You should precede the decimal with a zero, if the amount is less than 1 percent. For example,

• Wages and salaries increased 0.5 percent, benefits 0.4 percent. (Salt Lake Tribune)

Why AP Style Prefers “Percent” Over “%”

AP Style requires spelling out “percent” instead of using the symbol (%) to ensure consistency and readability across various types of media. Unlike the symbol, the word “percent” is universally clear and eliminates any ambiguity in formal or journalistic writing.

For instance, rather than writing “40% of participants agreed,” AP Style prefers “40 percent of participants agreed.”

How to Handle Decimals in AP Style Percentages

When using decimals with percentages in AP Style, precede amounts less than 1 with a zero. This small detail enhances readability and avoids confusion.

For example, “The interest rate increased by 0.7 percent” is preferred over “The interest rate increased by .7 percent.” Decimals should always be written with figures for clarity, regardless of their size, as in “Inflation rose by 2.3 percent.”

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Percentages in AP Style

Some common mistakes include using the “%” symbol instead of spelling out “percent,” failing to repeat “percent” with multiple figures in a range, and omitting the zero before a decimal.

For instance:

  • Incorrect: “5% to 15%” or “5-15 percent”
  • Correct: “5 percent to 15 percent” Additionally, avoid starting sentences with figures; instead, rephrase for clarity, such as “Twenty percent of voters…” rather than “20 percent of voters…”

Additional AP Style Tips for Writing Numbers and Symbols

In AP Style, use figures for all percentages and most measurements, even below 10. For example, write “5 percent” instead of “five percent.”

Avoid symbols like “&” for “and,” and always use “cents” instead of “¢.” In general, AP Style minimizes symbol use, except in specific contexts, to maintain readability.

Check Out: How Do We Write Numbers In AP Style?

What Did You Learn?

By spelling out “percent,” correctly handling decimals, and avoiding common mistakes, you enhance the readability and professionalism of your content.

Additionally, following AP Style for numbers and symbols, like avoiding the “%” sign, contributes to a polished, news-ready presentation.

With these insights, you’re better equipped to use percentages accurately, creating content that aligns with the standards expected in journalism and formal writing.

Filed Under: AP Style Guide

October 31, 2024 by admin

How Do We Use Accused in AP Style?

In AP Style, the word “accused” should be used with the preposition “of” rather than “with” when referring to someone charged with a crime. This ensures accuracy and clarity in legal and journalistic writing.

The word accused is used to refer a group of people or a person who is on trial for a crime.

The reason that I am coming up with this word is that most of the people use the word ‘accused’, for the people who are on trial, in a wrong way. There is a guideline that you can follow if you want your writing to be error-free.

According to AP Style, you have to write ‘accused of’ instead of ‘accused with’. A person is accused of a crime, not with a crime.

Accused of = Correct

Accused with = Wrong

For example,

1. He is accused of doing something wrong that is not acceptable at any cost.

2. The police arrested him because he was accused of the murder of an innocent boy.

Furthermore, you cannot write for a person as an ‘accused slayer’. The correct phrase would be ‘accused of the slaying’.

For example,

• Accused slayer Smith Johnson. (Wrong)

• Smith Johnson, who was accused of slaying… (Correct)

Common Mistakes with the Term “Accused”

In AP Style, using the word “accused” correctly is essential to maintaining clarity and accuracy, especially in legal contexts. Here are some common mistakes writers make when using the term “accused” and how to avoid them:

Using the Incorrect Preposition (“Accused with” vs. “Accused of”)

One of the most common mistakes is using the preposition “with” instead of “of.” In AP style, you should always use “accused of” when referring to the crime or offense a person is charged with.

Example of Incorrect Usage: He was accused with stealing the car.
Correct Usage: He was accused of stealing the car.

Misusing the Term “Accused” as a Noun

It’s also incorrect to use “accused” as a noun to describe a person charged with a crime, without further clarification. Instead, use a phrase like “the person accused of [crime]” to avoid confusion.

Example of Incorrect Usage: The accused is being held without bail.
Correct Usage:The person accused of the crime is being held without bail.

Using “Accused” for Someone Not Officially Charged

The term “accused” should only be used for someone who has been officially charged or alleged to have committed a crime. It is not appropriate to refer to someone as “accused” before any formal legal process has begun.

Example of Incorrect Usage:The suspect, who was merely questioned by police, was already considered the accused.
Correct Usage: The suspect, who was merely questioned by police, has not yet been formally accused of a crime.

Incorrectly Labeling a Person as “Accused of a Crime” Without Clarifying the Charge

Sometimes writers omit crucial information when referencing someone “accused” of a crime. It’s important to specify the exact crime they are accused of for clarity.

Example of Incorrect Usage: He is the accused.
Correct Usage: He is the person accused of embezzling company funds.

What Did You Learn?

Key points included the importance of using the correct preposition, “accused of” (not “accused with”), avoiding the term “accused” as a standalone noun without clarification, ensuring that a person is officially charged before referring to them as “accused,” and always specifying the crime when using the term.

Filed Under: AP Style Guide

  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • …
  • 6
  • Next Page »

Partners Ncaa approved online high school courses EHS