Key Takeaways
– Ellipses in AP style consist of three periods with a space on either side.
– They are used to indicate that something has been removed from a quote.
– Ellipses can also be used to show that a speaker or writer did not complete a full thought.
– They should not be used to show a pause for emphasis.
– It is important to use ellipses responsibly to maintain the integrity of the original quote.
Introduction
Punctuation marks play a crucial role in conveying meaning and clarity in writing. One such punctuation mark is the ellipsis. In AP style, the ellipsis is a set of three periods with a space on either side. It is commonly used to indicate that something has been omitted from a quote. However, the usage of ellipses goes beyond just omitting words. In this article, we will explore the proper usage of ellipses in AP style, their various applications, and the importance of using them responsibly.
The Correct Usage of Ellipses in AP Style
In AP style, ellipses are used to indicate that words have been removed from a direct quote. This is often done to condense a lengthy quote or to remove irrelevant information. When using ellipses, it is important to maintain the original meaning of the quote and not distort the author’s intent. The three periods should be separated by a space on either side, like this: “…”
Indicating Omitted Words
One common usage of ellipses is to indicate that words have been omitted from a quote. This can be done to remove repetitive or unnecessary information, or to focus on the most relevant parts of the quote. For example, if a quote originally said, “I went to the store, bought some groceries, and then went home,” it can be condensed using ellipses to say, “I went to the store…and then went home.”
Showing Incomplete Thoughts
Another usage of ellipses is to show that a speaker or writer did not complete a full thought. This can be used to create a sense of suspense or to indicate a pause in speech. For example, a character in a story might say, “I was walking down the dark alley when I heard a noise…I turned around, but there was no one there.”
Using Ellipses Responsibly
While ellipses can be a useful tool in writing, it is important to use them responsibly. They should not be used to create false or misleading quotes, or to change the meaning of the original text. Ellipses should also not be used to show a pause for emphasis. Instead, other punctuation marks such as dashes or commas should be used for this purpose. By using ellipses responsibly, writers can maintain the integrity of the original quote and ensure that their writing is clear and accurate.
Avoiding Misuse of Ellipses
To avoid misusing ellipses, it is important to remember that they should only be used in the middle of direct quotes, not at the beginning or end. They should also not be used to indicate a pause for emphasis. Instead, writers should use other punctuation marks or sentence structures to convey emphasis or pauses. By being mindful of these guidelines, writers can avoid misusing ellipses and maintain the integrity of their writing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ellipses are a valuable punctuation mark in AP style. They are used to indicate omitted words from a quote and to show incomplete thoughts. However, it is important to use ellipses responsibly and avoid misusing them. By following the guidelines of AP style and using ellipses mindfully, writers can enhance the clarity and accuracy of their writing. So, the next time you encounter an ellipsis, remember its purpose and use it wisely to convey meaning effectively.
