Do not alternate between spelling out the term and abbreviating it. Example: The diagnosis (i.e., attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder ) was confirmed via behavioral observation.Īfter you define an abbreviation (regardless of whether it is in parentheses), use only the abbreviation.
When the spelled-out version first appears in parentheses, put the abbreviation in brackets after it:
For example, it is usually easier to read a two-word phrase than it is to remember the meaning of a two-letter abbreviation. Use abbreviations to avoid cumbersome repetition and enhance understanding, not just as a writing shortcut.Would spelling out the term every time be overly repetitive and cumbersome?.The reader might have a hard time remembering what the abbreviation means if you use it infrequently. If you won’t use it three times, then spell out the term every time. Use an abbreviation at least three times in a paper if you are going to use it at all.Will you use the abbreviation at least three times in the paper?.If a standard abbreviation does not exist, then you can create your own. Use an existing, accepted abbreviation if one exists, because familiarity helps understanding.Is the reader familiar with the abbreviation?.Ask yourself these questions each time you consider using a particular abbreviation: Use abbreviations sparingly and only when they will help readers understand your work. Are abbreviations written with periods?.How do I use the words a and an before abbreviations?.Do all abbreviations needs to be defined?.Can I use abbreviations in tables and figures?.Can I use abbreviations in the abstract?.Can I use abbreviations in the running head?.Can I use abbreviations in the title of a paper?.How do I present an abbreviation in conjunction with an in-text citation?.How do I abbreviate group authors in in-text citations and reference list entries?.How do I introduce an abbreviation in the text?.106).Ĭlick a question below to jump straight to its answer.
Consider it an FAQ about abbreviations! You can find abbreviations discussed in the Publication Manual in section 4.22 (starting on p.
Abbreviations in APA Style-specifically, how to use acronyms, which are abbreviations made up of the first letters of each word in a phrase.