From acronyms and initialisms to colons and semicolons, the Style Guide explains and provides examples of the conventions of grammar, formatting, and usage that ICES follows in its written content.
The new version features new sections alongside previous sections that have been reworded for clarity and comprehension. Each section is built around clear colour-coded examples, with ticks and crosses showing correct and incorrect usage. Entries are now arranged alphabetically making the document more easily searchable.
Also new are sections on frequently misspelled words, how to be concise, and how to write more like a human. There is guidance on writing well, which is important when communicating to a readership and community that consists of many non-native English speakers. The guide ends with an extensive annex on how to properly formulate references.
The Word List, previously issued as a separate document, now features as part of the single publication.
To ensure guidance aligns with the terminology used by ICES Data Centre for categories of words like species and fishing gears, the publication contains links to data vocabularies.
Consistency
A consistent house style, free from ambiguity, is one way that ICES maintains its credibility within its community and to those outside it. The production of written works following this style are essential tools by which the organization advances the state of marine science and its applications to global conservation, management, and sustainability goals. The Style Guide reflects the value ICES places on quality, knowledge sharing, and community engagement.
The guide is reviewed continually to ensure that it properly reflects usage and is fit for purpose. A new version is published once per year. As part of the review process, ICES Publications Team invites proposals from members of ICES who disagree with any existing guidance. Contact us with queries, suggestions, or feedback of any kind.
