As technology evolves, so do the guidelines for writing about it. Bellevue College’s editorial standards ensure that all digital communication maintains clarity and accessibility for our audiences.
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BC Editorial Standards: Digital Communications Made Simple
At Bellevue College, effective digital communication is about more than just getting the message across—it’s about doing so in a way that’s clear, professional, and consistent. As technology evolves, so do the guidelines for writing about it. Bellevue College’s editorial standards ensure that all digital communication maintains clarity and accessibility for our audiences.
Here are some key practices to keep in mind:
Simplifying URLs and Email Addresses
When using URLs or email addresses in a sentence, always omit “http://www.” For example:
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Visit us at bellevuecollege.edu.
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For questions, email us at studentaffairs@bellevuecollege.edu.
If a URL comes at the end of a sentence, include a period to ensure proper punctuation. These small adjustments make your communication cleaner and more streamlined.
Using Technology Terms Correctly
Technology terms can be tricky, and consistent usage helps avoid confusion. Bellevue College adheres to widely accepted conventions to standardize these terms:
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Login: Use as a noun or adjective (e.g., Enter your login credentials).
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Log in: Use as a verb (e.g., Log in to your account).
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NetID: Always capitalize as shown.
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Website: Write as one word, lowercase.
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Webcam: Also one word, lowercase.
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Wi-Fi: Capitalize the “W” and “F,” and include a hyphen for correct formatting.
For instance:
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Please use your NetID to log in to the college website.
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We recommend testing your webcam and Wi-Fi connection before the virtual meeting.
These standards eliminate ambiguity and reflect current usage trends, ensuring your audience doesn’t stumble over inconsistent terminology.
Why It Matters
Attention to detail in digital communication—such as consistent terminology and punctuation—enhances professionalism and minimizes confusion. For example, consider the difference in meaning between “log in” and “login.” Misusing these terms could lead to misunderstandings, especially for readers less familiar with technology.
Additionally, following these standards helps Bellevue College maintain credibility and accessibility across its platforms, whether communicating with students, staff, or the broader community.
Pro Tip: The Oxford Comma
Another essential element of professional writing is the Oxford comma. While it’s not specific to digital communication, using it consistently ensures clarity in your writing. For example:
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Without the Oxford comma: I invited my coworkers, my parents and my advisor.
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With the Oxford comma: I invited my coworkers, my parents, and my advisor.
The second example eliminates ambiguity. Small details like this make a big difference in presenting polished, professional content.
Staying Current
As technology and communication methods continue to evolve, so will our guidelines. For the latest standards on punctuation, style, and digital communication, refer to the Bellevue College Style Guide. Staying updated ensures your writing remains relevant and effective in our ever-changing digital landscape.
Clear, consistent communication is a reflection of Bellevue College’s commitment to excellence. By following these editorial standards, you can help ensure that all college communications meet the highest standards of professionalism.
Last Updated January 6, 2025