1. Jeff Countryman

    Jeff Countryman Living the dream

    Joined:
    Aug 28, 2015
    Messages:
    161
    Likes Received:
    89
    Location:
    Canada

    Character is known as A.J. but with the periods or not??

    Discussion in 'Word Mechanics' started by Jeff Countryman, Feb 6, 2016.

    One of my characters is originally known by his nickname (only for introduction) then known as AJ. Would I write that in my final publishable draft as AJ or A.J. ?? No one ever uses any other name....just the initials A.J.

    Examples:
    TJ Smith instead of "Terrance John"
    JB Walton instead of "John-Boy"
    AJ Stapleton instead of "Andrew James"

    "Hi TJ, how are you doing today?" Frank asked.....versus......."Hi T.J., how are you doing today?" Frank asked.

    Which way is correct - with or without the period after the initials?
     
  2. GingerCoffee

    GingerCoffee Web Surfer Girl Contributor

    Joined:
    Mar 3, 2013
    Messages:
    18,385
    Likes Received:
    7,080
    Location:
    Ralph's side of the island.
    I would say no periods for nicknames, yes for formal abbreviations such as in a letterhead or if you are describing a business card. But the only thing that matters is being consistent.

    You might also consider a space between the letters. JR might be clear because the R is capitalized, but J R is clearly not pronounced Junior.
     
    Jeff Countryman likes this.
  3. AASmith

    AASmith Senior Member

    Joined:
    Mar 26, 2015
    Messages:
    293
    Likes Received:
    124
    No periods. If you need to change it, its an easy "find and replace"
     
    Tenderiser likes this.
  4. lostinwebspace

    lostinwebspace Active Member

    Joined:
    Mar 5, 2011
    Messages:
    466
    Likes Received:
    17
    Location:
    Canada
    Hate to go against the grain, but I once got feedback on a manuscript from a professional editor on this very issue, and she said periods with a space between the letters. So "A. J."
     

Share This Page

  1. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
    By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.
    Dismiss Notice