Editorial Style

Speak with one voice

Following SJSU Editorial Style guidelines will help us all speak with one voice. Our guide borrows heavily from The Associated Press Stylebook, which is used for print and digital platforms such as SJSU NewsCenter, “Washington Square,” President's blog, college and department newsletters and other materials targeting a general audience.

Send us your questions and comments about SJSU Editorial Style and this guide.

Are you communicating effectively?

As you tell the stories of the people in your college, department or program, how do you know if what you’re creating supports and enhances San José State’s reputation? The following questions will help you determine if you have incorporated key themes and messages across all communication platforms.

• Does your story or message share an individual's story through individual accomplishments? Does it show how the individual is an extraordinary part of an extraordinary university community? Will the story inspire people associated with San José State?
• Is your example unique to SJSU? No other academic institution should be able to make the same or similar claim, or use the same or similar example.
• Are the brand pillars reflected in your content?
• Using concrete examples or proof points, can you describe how San José State’s approach to teaching and learning prepares students to adapt in 21st-century careers?
• Does your story or example highlight SJSU’s personality and strengths? Does it show how students, faculty members and alumni are hard working, resilient, creative, smart, grounded, ready, resourceful, service-oriented, entrepreneurial, proud, collaborative or adaptable?

If you can answer “yes” to at least one of these questions, congratulations! Your story effectively communicates the how and why of San José State's identity.