1. dillseed

    dillseed Active Member

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    Spaces In Initials

    Discussion in 'Word Mechanics' started by dillseed, May 28, 2014.

    Is it preferable to use single spaces after the period in abbreviations of first and middle names?

    J. D. Thompson (for John David Thompson)

    or should it be:

    J.D. Thompson (no space)

    E. B. White or E.B. White preferred?

    If three letters are used for the first, middle and last name, does this look correct?

    JFK (not J. F. K. or J.F.K.)
    FDR (not F. D. R. or F.D.R.)

    Thanks,

    Mike
     
    Last edited: May 28, 2014
    Andrae Smith likes this.
  2. Andrae Smith

    Andrae Smith Bestselling Author|Editor|Writing Coach Contributor

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    Good question! You always have good questions. I like how they are specific and always a little tricky. I an't help but learn something when trying to find an answer for you.

    Anyway, your first example is correct. In the word of the Penn State Visual and Editorial manual (online resource):
    So you would write, J. D. Thompson not J.D. Thompson.

    As for the second question, don't use the periods. According to the Illinois Writing Style Guide:
     
  3. dillseed

    dillseed Active Member

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    Thank you. :)
     

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