AP Style Guide

In AP Style, abbreviations for medical terms and brand names follow specific rules. “GLP-1” is written with a hyphen and spelled out on first reference. Trademark symbols like ® and ™ are never used. Instead, brand names like Ozempic and Wegovy are simply capitalized.

GLP-1, Ozempic, and Wegovy are all related to a class of drugs used for diabetes and weight loss. GLP-1 weightloss is the abbreviation for glucagon-like peptide-1. Ozempic and Wegovy are brand names for the same generic drug, semaglutide. AP Style has clear rules for how to write all of them correctly.

Use of GLP-1 (Abbreviation)

The abbreviation GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1, which is a hormone that regulates appetite and blood sugar. If you are referring to GLP-1 for the first time in an article, you should write the full term followed by the abbreviation in parentheses. After that, you can use GLP-1 alone. The hyphen between the letter and the number is required.

For example,

• The drug mimics glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) , which helps control hunger signals. (First reference – full term + abbreviation)
• Studies show that GLP-1 agonists can lead to 15% body weight loss. (Later reference – abbreviation only)
• Doctors have prescribed GLP-1 medications to millions of patients. (Used as an adjective)
• Natural GLP-1 levels rise after eating a meal. (Correct hyphen placement)

Use of Ozempic and Wegovy (Brand Names)

The brand names Ozempic and Wegovy refer to the same generic drug, semaglutide. Ozempic is typically prescribed for Type 2 diabetes, while Wegovy is approved for weight management. In AP Style, you should never use the trademark symbols ® or ™. Simply capitalize the brand name as you would any proper noun. Do not add any symbols before or after the name.

For example,

• She was prescribed Ozempic for her diabetes, not Ozempic®. (Symbol removed)
• Wegovy received FDA approval for chronic weight management in 2021. (Capitalized, no ™ symbol)
• Many patients ask for Mounjaro by name as an alternative to Ozempic. (All brand names follow same rule)
• The insurance company does not cover Wegovy but covers the generic version, semaglutide. (Brand name capitalized, generic lowercase)

Notes:

• It is assumed that GLP-1 refers to the hormone class unless otherwise specified. You do not need to spell it out again after the first reference in the same article.
• You cannot write “GLP1” without a hyphen. AP Style requires the hyphen between the letter and the number.
• However, for brand names, never add a hyphen or symbol. Write “Ozempic” not “Ozempic®” or “Ozempic-1.”

When to Omit Trademark Symbols in AP Style

Trademark symbols (® for registered trademark, ™ for unregistered trademark claim) can often be omitted entirely in AP Style writing. Instead of writing “Ozempic®” as the drug company does on its website, you simply write “Ozempic.” The symbol is unnecessary because the capitalization of the brand name makes it clear you are referring to a specific product.

Similarly, for the abbreviation GLP-1, the hyphen is never omitted. But the full expansion “glucagon-like peptide-1” is only needed once. After that, “GLP-1” alone is acceptable, as the context is clear.

For example,

• Correct (AP Style): She started taking Wegovy last month.
• Incorrect (Brand’s style): She started taking Wegovy™ last month.
• Correct (AP Style): GLP-1 medications have changed obesity treatment.
• Incorrect: GLP1 medications have changed obesity treatment. (Missing hyphen)

Alternative Terms for GLP-1 Drugs in Modern Writing

In recent years, the use of “GLP-1 receptor agonist” has become more common in medical writing. This term refers to the same class of drugs. Additionally, new brand names like Zepbound and Mounjaro (for tirzepatide, a dual GLP-1/GIP agonist) have entered the market. These are also written in AP Style without symbols.

While drug companies prefer to display ® and ™ symbols for legal protection, AP Style completely ignores them. Follow AP Style guidelines for any publication that values clean, readable news writing. If you are writing for a scientific journal, check their specific rules. For general websites and blogs that follow AP Style, drop the symbols and keep the hyphen in GLP-1.

Check Out: How Do We Use Abbreviations and Acronyms in AP Style? (on HeadsUpEnglish)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One of the most common mistakes when writing about these drugs is using the trademark symbol. Remember, AP Style never uses ® or ™. Just write “Ozempic” and “Wegovy” with capital letters only.

Another common error is writing “GLP1” without a hyphen or “GLP 1” with a space. The correct form is GLP-1 with a hyphen between the letter P and the number 1.

A third mistake is forgetting to spell out the full term on first reference. AP Style requires you to write “glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1)” the first time you mention it. After that, “GLP-1” is fine.

Additionally, avoid redundant phrases like “GLP-1 hormone” (since GLP-1 already stands for glucagon-like peptide-1, which is a hormone). Just write “GLP-1” alone. Always ensure correct usage for clarity.

For example,

• Incorrect: GLP-1 hormone helps control blood sugar. *(Redundant – GLP-1 already implies a hormone)*
• Correct: GLP-1 helps control blood sugar.
• Incorrect: She uses Ozempic® every week. (Symbol not allowed)
• Correct: She uses Ozempic every week.
• Incorrect: GLP1 medications are popular. (Missing hyphen)
• Correct: GLP-1 medications are popular.

What Did We Learn?

According to AP Style, “GLP-1” (glucagon-like peptide-1) is written with a hyphen and spelled out on first reference. For brand names like Ozempic and Wegovy, we never use ® or ™ symbols – just capitalize the name. We also discovered that the hyphen in GLP-1 is never omitted, and the full expansion is only required once per article.

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.

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.

In AP (Associated Press) style, both A.D. and B.C. are written in capital letters with periods after each letter. The key difference between them is their placement relative to the year. B.C. (“Before Christ”) always comes after the year for example, “The structure was built in 43 B.C.” A.D. (Latin Anno Domini, “in the year of the Lord”), on the other hand, traditionally comes before the year for example, “The empire fell in A.D. 476.” However, when referring to a century, A.D. follows the figure instead as in “the second century A.D.” AP style generally advises that A.D. is unnecessary for recent or clearly modern dates, since those are assumed. Note that AP uses B.C./A.D. rather than the alternative BCE/CE notation. So the key rules to remember: use capital letters with periods, place B.C. after the year, place A.D. before the year (but after a century), and reserve them for when the era isn’t obvious.

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., 21^st 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

In AP (Associated Press) style, the rule for percent changed in 2019: AP now uses the percent symbol (%) with a numeral, rather than spelling out the word so you write “60%” rather than “60 percent.” The number is always expressed as a figure, even for amounts below ten, as in “He won 5% of the vote.” There is no space between the number and the symbol (25%, not 25 %). For amounts less than 1%, AP style adds a leading zero for example, “0.6%.” When a sentence begins with a percentage, you spell out the number and the word percent (or recast the sentence), since AP avoids starting a sentence with a numeral. So the key rules to remember: use the % symbol with figures, no space between them, a leading zero for amounts under 1%, and spell it out only at the start of a sentence.

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.