Write it Right: Handling the Nitty-Gritty

What is the correct way to use abbreviations, apostrophes and percentages?

Which common spelling mistakes do spell-checkers miss?

What discriminatory forms of expression should I be aware of?

It is not always possible to remember how to use abbreviations, apostrophes, numbers or percentages, or how to incorporate tables in your essays. Use these guidelines when ‘cobwebs’ form in your mind about these nitty-gritty aspects of writing. While the nitty-gritty is a minor part of the essay writing process, it is also an area in which simple mistakes can lose you marks.

Use abbreviations rarely and carefully

It is fine to use abbreviations in your notes and essay drafts, but in the final version of the essay you submit to be graded, always use the full word. Using abbreviations such as i.e. (that is) is a sign of sloppy expression. Since you are graded on your expression, don't fall into the trap of developing such bad habits.

Abbreviations as acronyms

Abbreviations can be used for acronyms (words formed from the initials of other words), but you cannot assume that everyone knows the meanings of abbreviations such as OECD. The standard rule for such abbreviations is to write them out in full the first time you use them in your essay and give the abbreviation in brackets afterwards. From then on you can use the abbreviated form. Note that it is not necessary to place full stops after each capital letter. For example:

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) argues that trade negotiations should take place. It is OECD policy that …