MnDOT style guide
Much of the work we do at MnDOT is accomplished by project teams made up of people from different knowledge bases and disciplines, or people who are new to the organization. This diversity of viewpoints gives us strength, but it can lead to big differences in the way we use language. This guide is intended to help us communicate with one voice and do so writing clearly, with brevity and simplicity.
Uniform style keeps our communication clear and accurate and helps us speak with a unified voice. It demonstrates competence and consistency and creates trust with our audience. Tone and word choice may affect the reader’s perception of whether we are living out our agency’s core values. The guidelines in this style guide will support you in creating communications that create understanding.
At MnDOT, we conform to AP style unless noted otherwise in this guide.
See our voice and tone guide to learn about how best to address our readers.
While it is not a replacement for the information presented in this guide, a brief checklist based on it is available, and can be a good resource to double-check that you’re following the correct style when making content updates.
Proof your communications and ask for second opinions from colleagues who can provide feedback on the clarity and tone of your communication.
If you have questions about this style guide, please contact Communication team members. As time goes on, we will continue to meet periodically to discuss revisions to this guide.
Sections
- Abbreviations and acronyms
- Active and passive voice
- Address the user
- Capitalization
- Formatting and punctuation
- Numbers and percentages
- Plain language
- Web update style checklist
- Word and topic list
- Writing for communication channels