Using AP Style Ellipses Correctly

Using ellipses (singular: ellipsis) properly is a matter of correct grammar and presentation. You must consider the usage for the type of writing and how you render them on the page. Like em dashes and parentheses, ellipses are a style element too which means special handling, so they mesh with your work.

Mechanics of Ellipses

You wouldn’t think there would be such fuss about a series of periods. But there is a right and a wrong way to add them which varies by the style you follow. For AP style ellipses, you should use three non-spaced periods with a space both preceding and following them.

There is no variation in the number of periods. It’s always three. You can use an ellipsis at the beginning of a sentence. Treat it like a three-letter word. You should capitalize the first word of the sentence that follows it.

EXAMPLES:

• The correct way to show an ellipsis on the page is like this … which is plain to see.
• ... But I thought dinner was at 8 o’clock.

When Do You Use Ellipses?

These style elements like exclamation points serve an editorial function too. You can use an ellipsis to condense your writing to remove irrelevant content, redundant words or those that are understood.

EXAMPLE:

• Before: Good morning. I don’t have much time. I have another meeting. I want to get started right away
• After: Good morning. … I want to get started right away.

The essential thing to remember is that you should never alter the original meaning of a sentence by shortening it. The middle phrases didn’t add to the main point, so removing them didn’t change the gist of the text.

Using Ellipses for Style

Sometimes you’ll often see AP style ellipses used deliberately to add meaning or give the text the impression of conversation with the reader. It often appears in other satirical contexts. Using an ellipsis can pack a huge literary punch, so you should use it sparingly for the best effect. Overused, they become garish and trite.

EXAMPLES:

• Everyone knows his history, so it’s not a surprise, but ...
• Everyone was shocked that she thought he was … innocent.

A Special Way to Use Ellipses

In media, you may encounter another use of an ellipsis that is unique to the AP style for entertainment and other informal writing. You’ll see ellipses used as a means to connect several sentences in a single paragraph. It may serve as an introduction to a column piece that will touch on multiple topics.

EXAMPLE:

• His story began on a farm in Iowa. … Sources say he never learned to read music. … The survey found that most people believe eating healthy is important.

The best way to use AP style ellipses is by following the guide’s mechanics and usage. Reserve ellipses as an editorial device in formal writing. For informal works, let them add the greatest effect by reserving them for a dramatic moment for the biggest bang for the buck.

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