These rules apply to American English and follow the Chicago Manual of Style, and in British English, according to New Hart’s Rules, the Oxford Style Guide. If you’re writing fiction and following the Chicago Manual of Style (CMOS), the general rule is simple: Spell out whole numbers from zero through one hundred and use numerals for larger numbers. If you’re writing fiction and following the Oxford Style Guide, New Hart’s Rules (NHR), the general rule is a little more detail

As we see more and more authors and influencers called out or “canceled” for using ableist language, we thought we’d produce a resource for authors on the subject. Words matter, and the way we use them and the order in which they appear in a sentence can elicit different reactions from readers, ranging from being perceived as ableist to being perceived as respectful. What one person considers unacceptable may be acceptable to another. It’s a complex subject. We acknowledge th

Language is powerful, but it can also age your book faster than you expect. Using trendy words, brand names, or specific tech references can make your story feel contemporary now but outdated in a few years. Here’s how to future-proof your writing while keeping it inclusive and accessible. Brand names and technology: Using specific companies or products can anchor your story to a moment in time. Examples: · She checked her BlackBerry for messages. (2005–2010) · He p

There’s not one answer for this one. Every author has a different process. We encourage authors to do several read-throughs before sending it for professional editing. You want to get the most out of your edit, and sending a manuscript off without doing the basic checks will make your editor’s job challenging. When a markup is extensive, it actually makes the document hard to read. So when we go through for our second pass, it’s hard to see the wood for the trees. Some things

Before your project begins, we ask that you complete a Style Sheet. Our Style Sheet is a personalized guide to your book. It is where you tell your editor and/or proofreader about your book, characters, and specific preferences regarding grammar, punctuation, etc. While we typically refer to The Chicago Manual of Style and Merriam-Webster’s dictionary when editing in American English (unless otherwise noted), there will always be specific style preferences that are at the aut

We’re sure you’ve heard the phrase “Show, don’t tell” before. It is a simple idea that can sometimes be challenging to put into practice. While this list is not comprehensive, here are a few tips on how to paint a vivid picture for your reader without just telling. Camera Test: Write as if you were watching a movie through a camera lens. If your reader can ’ t see what is happening, you might be telling instead of showing. Incorporate plenty of dialogue. Dialogue, in itself,