University Updates Writing Style Guidelines

The use of a clear and unified writing style for all printed materials and Web sites is essential to an organization’s ongoing success. In recognition of this fact, Pitt’s Office of Public Affairs has published the second edition of the University of Pittsburgh Writing Style Manual.

“Pitt’s Writing Style Manual unites the University’s schools, colleges, departments, and other units under one consistent and comprehensive writing style that is specially tailored to meet our needs,” said Robert Hill, vice chancellor for public affairs. “The manual is a compilation of editorial clarifications based on Pitt’s current stylebook that was initially introduced to the Pitt community in 2003.”

Sources in the preparation of the second edition include the Chicago Manual of Style, 15th Edition, and the Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, 11th Edition. Entries address official names of schools, departments, offices, and programs at the University.

The reference booklet has been created especially for those involved in mass communications on behalf of the University, including those responsible for Pitt brochures, newsletters, magazines, posters, articles, flyers, Web sites, and other publications.

Pitt’s Office of Human Resources, through the Faculty and Staff Development Program, is offering workshops on Pitt’s writing style guidelines for faculty and staff members. “Writing With Style—Official University Style, That Is!” will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. Dec. 4 in Room 342 Craig Hall. The session is designed for those who are responsible for writing for their departments and who have not previously attended this workshop.

A second workshop, “Refresher on Writing With University Style,” is designed for those who previously attended “Writing With Style” and will provide an update on manual changes. It will be held from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Oct. 31 in Room 342 Craig Hall. Those attending the workshops will receive a copy of the new manual. Online registration is available at www.hr.pitt.edu/orgdev. The second edition of the manual is also available online at www.umc.pitt.edu/styleguide.

For more information about the manual, University style, or the workshops, contact Sarah Jordan Rosenson, sdj10@pitt.edu, 412-624-6640, or Shannon Proud, srp16@pitt.edu, 412-624-0139.