NCO Primary Leadership Subjects
Using Abbreviations
Abbreviations can reduce the bulk of your writing and make the use of complex
Introduction
terms easy and precise. However, if you use abbreviations that are unfamiliar to
your readers, they may not understand your writing. If you use abbreviations
incorrectly, you cause more confusion for the reader. Therefore, you should avoid
using them in text. If you must use abbreviations, use them cautiously and only
when they make reading and comprehension easier.
Consult a good dictionary about the spelling, capitalization, or meaning of any
Misused
abbreviation. This table shows how to correctly use three frequently misused
abbreviations
abbreviations.
Abbreviation
Correct Usage
Follow i.e. in a sentence with an explanation.
i.e.
Meaning: that is
Example: You should proofread your work for
redundancies, i.e., repetitive information.
Follow e.g. in a sentence with specific examples.
e.g.
Meaning: for example
Example: Use the AT-4 to destroy enemy armor,
e.g., a BMP-2 infantry fighting vehicle.
Never use etc after "and" in a sentence. It is
etc.
redundant.
Meaning: and other
things
Example: For the promotion party, we stocked
plates, napkins, eating utensils, etc.
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Writing Mechanics and Composition
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