Journalism

Fake Guide Keeps Newsies Laughing

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Last Updated on February 5, 2022

For journalists, the AP Stylebook is a revered guide to writing. It contains the grammar and usage rules that tend to standardize the way we write.

But a clearly — and intentionally — fake version of the AP Stylebook has made its way to Twitter and it is keeping journalists and non-journalists alike in stitches with some of its more humorous updates.

There was this one about a current dating trend:

A “cougar” is a large cat native to North America. An older woman who pursues a younger man is “embarrassing herself.”

And this one that pokes fun at J-school students:

While it’s tempting to call them “baristi” because of the Italian roots, the plural of “barista” is “journalism majors.”

And here’s a usage advisory for Detroit:

automaker – Spell as one word, as the U.S. auto industry can no longer afford spaces.

Here are a couple of other recent tweets:

A ‘queue’ is a short line of people or other objects. A ‘queueueueueue’ is a longer line.

“Redneck” is considered a derogatory term but you know what? Who cares about those stupid rednecks.

Do not use “Whoomp! There it is!” unless it actually is there.

If you’re the Twitter type, they’re definitely worth a follow!

the authorPatrick
Patrick is a Christian with more than 30 years experience in professional writing, producing and marketing. His professional background also includes social media, reporting for broadcast television and the web, directing, videography and photography. He enjoys getting to know people over coffee and spending time with his dog.