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Writing Details

Key Terms and Invented Phrases

Italics

Use italics when first mentioning

  • a technical term,
  • a key term, or
  • a label.

After the first use, do not use italics.

Example

The term hypocaust refers to a raised floor structure which allows heated air to circulate beneath the flooring. Hypocausts originated in the…

Double Quotation Marks

Use double quotation marks " " when first mentioning

  • an ironic comment,
  • slang, or
  • an invented or coined expression.

After the first use, do not use quotation marks.

Example

The verb “unfriend” has become popular due to its use on online social networking sites. People unfriend each other when…