Editing 101

Best Practices for Online Copy

The smallest details of your content can influence a reader's perception of your website's reliability. Consistency in capitalization and the visual treatment of words--how you use such elements as quotation marks, boldface, and italics--contributes to your content's readability and speeds comprehension. And it does one more thing that's less tangible but very important: It gives the people visiting your site the understanding that your website takes itself seriously.

Punctuate Proficiently

Modern writing tends to be lightly punctuated. When, how, and where you use a mark is crucial for conveying a clear message, especially online, where readers scan. In this section, find guidelines for using each mark competently.

Treat Abbreviations, Capitalization, and Titles Consistently

Capitalization, abbreviation, and punctuation are small style matters, but handling them inconsistently can give visitors a rocky reading experience and may lead to confusion. Plus, the more eagle-eyed members of your audience may question your expertise. In this section, find guidelines for small style matters that matter.

Apply a Consistent Style for Numbers

Web style favors using numerals for most numbers: Numerals save space and attract the eye in headlines and when scanning a page. But questions naturally arise: Is it 9 a.m. or 9:00 a.m.? Does your product cost six dollars, $6.00, or $6? The guidelines in the categories below help you treat numbers consistently and in a way that works for the Web.