A Reminder About Those Pesky Apostrophes - Grammar Tips from Prompt Proofing

    VANCOUVER, BC, May 02, 2014 /24-7PressRelease/ -- From the number of stray apostrophes we notice around the place, it seems a small reminder might be appropriate:

1. Acronyms and Abbreviations

Apostrophes are not needed when forming plurals. More than one CD becomes CDs; likewise FAQs. The only reason for an apostrophe with CD is if it is being used to show possession, for example:

The image on the CD's label is misleading.

Similarly, with other abbreviations, for example see the following from the financial world:

RRSPs,TFSAs, IRAs, ATMs, PINs, etc.

Since we would not use an apostrophe if we were talking about more than one mutual fund or savings account, nor should we use one for an abbreviation. If in doubt consider writing the words out in full:

Registered Retirement Savings Plans, Tax-Free Savings Accounts, etc.

2. Dos and Don'ts

Yes, the above is correct. Interestingly, the most common way we see this written (incorrectly) is do's and don'ts. Perhaps the apostrophe in don't leads writers to think there should be one in do also? In fact we are simply pluralizing each word - don't has an apostrophe because it is a contraction of do not.

About Prompt Proofing

Prompt Proofing is based in Vancouver, BC, Canada and was officially launched in 2010 by a team of editing and writing professionals who have over 40 years of experience in the education, news media, public relations and recruitment fields. Prompt Proofing prides itself on affordable services delivered with fast turnaround times, without sacrificing quality or accuracy.

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