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.