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Editing Resources

As representatives of an academic institution, all members of the LSU community are held to high standards of communication, especially in written communication. The following reference books for writing and grammar can help you as you proofread your documents for appropriate style, proper grammar, and correct spelling.

• The Chicago Manual of Style
• Merriam Webster's Collegiate Dictionary
• Strunk & White's Elements of Style

Accuracy is also essential, and the LSU General Catalog provides the official names and titles of all University units, programs, faculty, and administration.

In written and verbal communications, LSU should always be referred to as Louisiana State University, LSU, or the University.

Official documents, such as legally binding contracts and certified documents, should refer to LSU by its legal name: Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College.

LSU should NEVER be referred to as Louisiana State, LSU-Baton Rouge, L.S.U., or other aliases different from those stated above.

University Style

• Courtesy titles, such as Mr., Mrs., Ms., or Dr., unless referring to a medical doctor, should be avoided within paragraph text and captions and/or cutlines. "Dr." is used to refer only to a medical doctor. Use "PhD" or professor's title to establish academic credentials or expertise. Always use a spouse's first name: "John and Mary Smith"; never "Mr. and Mrs. Smith." Courtesy titles are allowed in donor lists to satisfy donor wishes.
• Use "telephone" instead of "phone." Standard telephone structure is 225-578-1234.
• When referring to LSU, capitalize "University." When referring to a university in general terms, the word should be lowercased. Example: "LSU officials said the University will reopen on Tuesday," or "LSU is a public university."