Writing for the Web

Web Writing Best Practices

Follow these best practices for web writing and presenting information:

• Use “spell check” and proofread the content prior to posting.
• Make your text “scannable” — say less. 
• Put more important content first (inverted pyramid).
• Focus on one idea per paragraph.
• Use only one space following punctuation at the end of a sentence.
• Use clear headlines and subheads.
• Consider the user’s goals.
• Use active voice.
• Integrate graphics and other media content.

Audience

When creating content for your pages, keep in mind that you may be addressing multiple audiences (such as prospective students, current students, current faculty, prospective faculty, members of the community, media, parents, etc.). Write copy that speaks to these audiences, some of whom may know nothing about your department. The main page of your site needs to be especially friendly and informative.

Style Guides

Towson University follows the Associated Press (AP) Stylebook and Webster’s New World College Dictionary, Fifth Edition for decisions on spelling, style and usage. We defer to the Chicago Manual of Style for issues not ruled upon by AP.

Another useful resource is the Disability Language Style Guide. As language and perceptions of ableism change, it becomes increasingly difficult for journalists and other communicators to figure out how to refer to people with disabilities. This style guide, developed by the National Center on Disability and Journalism at Arizona State University, covers dozens of words and terms commonly used when referring to disability.

Glossary of Specific Terms

For terminology that is unique to TU, the university has developed an editorial guide.