On August 15, the 18th edition of The Chicago Manual of Style was launched online. On September 19, the print version will be released. So, what’s changed?
The 18th edition features many clarifications, changes, and new additions, and you can see the full list here. In this article, I’ll break down some of the biggest updates. This Wednesday, I’ll share a few more.
If you’re unfamiliar with style guides like CMOS and how they affect you as a writer or editor, check out this brief blog.
Formatting and Manuscript Preparation
Acknowledgements
Unless an author is acknowledging the significant contributions of people who are not listed on the title page (for example, translators or other collaborators), Chicago now recommends placing acknowledgements in the back matter of the book, rather than in the front.
Table of Contents
CMOS 18 added new guidance on including a table of contents in ebooks and audiobooks. Primarily, it specifies that these books should include a table of contents even if their print counterparts do not. It also lists elements that should be included that are typically not included in a print table of contents.
The update also includes new guidance for tables of contents in print manuscripts. It specifies the location of the table of contents, as well as what it should contain and how to insert page numbers.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Several updates were made relating to the use of AI in manuscripts. Guidance was added on how to cite AI-generated images and content.
New information was given on copyrighting AI-generated content: Generally speaking, anything generated by AI cannot be copyrighted. If a work is created both by AI and a human author, the copyright will be limited to what was created by the human author.
In addition, guidance was provided on disclosing use of AI when applying for a copyright.
New info on the responsibility of authors to specify whether and to what extend AI has been used in their work, as well as a recommendation for authors who have not used AI to specify this in their applications.
Authenticity and Sensitivity Readings
The updated CMOS includes new guidance for authors on authenticity and sensitivity readings. It states that manuscripts containing content outside of the author’s personal experience, including material related to underrepresented groups, would benefit from sensitivity and authenticity readings. These readings should be done before the copy editing stage.
Grammar and Usage
Inclusive Language Strategies
Chicago also expanded its section on word usage as it pertains to inclusive language and minimizing bias. In summary, the guide states that writers should be mindful of the words they use related to characteristics like gender, race, and disability, but acknowledged that eliminating all bias is unrealistic.
Singular “They”
Chicago now endorses the use of “they” as a singular pronoun in formal writing when referring to a subject whose gender is unknown or unspecified.
Words from Other Languages
Previously, CMOS advised that words from other languages be written in italics. Now, CMOS states that these words do not need to be italicized when they are used as part of the vocabulary of a multilingual author or character.
On Wednesday, I’ll share more of the updates included in the 18th edition of The Chicago Manual of Style, focusing specifically on punctuation, capitalization, and numbers.
If you’re an independent author reading this, don’t worry. You don’t need to be a style-guide expert! Your book editor will help make sure your book aligns consistently with your chosen style guide.
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