Writing Guidelines
Mission & Standards
Aevum News exists to deliver truth that transcends time. In an era of information overload, our commitment is to accuracy, context, and integrity. Every article we publish must withstand the test of time and scrutiny.
When in doubt, verify. Speed never justifies inaccuracy. We would rather publish late and right than early and wrong.
Accuracy First
Every claim, statistic, and quote must be verified against primary sources. If you cannot verify it, do not publish it. "Widely reported" is not a source.
Context is King
Never present a fact without its context. Provide background, explain significance, and acknowledge complexity. Avoid decontextualized soundbites.
Clarity Over Cleverness
Prioritize clear, accessible language. If a reader has to re-read a sentence to understand it, rewrite it. Intelligence does not require obscurity.
Tone & Voice
Our voice is authoritative, calm, and precise. We do not sensationalize. We do not panic. We inform.
Authoritative
Write with confidence earned through research. Avoid hedging language like "some might say" or "it appears that." State facts clearly.
Respectful
Maintain dignity in all coverage. Even when reporting on controversy or tragedy, treat subjects with respect. Avoid derogatory language.
Concise
Respect the reader's time. Every sentence should serve a purpose. Cut filler words, redundant phrases, and unnecessary adjectives.
Bias & Neutrality
Neutrality does not mean neutrality on truth. We are neutral on interpretation, but rigorous on fact. Present multiple perspectives fairly, but do not fabricate balance where none exists.
- Never use loaded or emotionally charged language.
- Attribute opinions clearly; separate fact from analysis.
- When reporting on sensitive topics, use precise terminology. Avoid euphemisms that obscure meaning.
- If a claim is demonstrably false, state it as false. "Both sides" journalism has no place in factual reporting.
Headlines
Headlines must be clear, accurate, and compelling without resorting to clickbait. They should summarize the core news value.
• Use sentence case (except proper nouns).
• No exclamation points.
• Avoid questions unless the article is literally a Q&A.
• Keep under 70 characters for SEO where possible.
Quotes & Attribution
Quotes add humanity and authority. Use them judiciously.
Attribution Format
Always identify speakers on first mention with full name, title, and organization. Example: "Quote," said Dr. Elena Rodriguez, lead researcher at the Institute of Technology.
Direct vs. Indirect
Use direct quotes for impactful statements or unique phrasing. Paraphrase for routine information. Never alter the meaning of a quote in paraphrase.
Anonymous Sources
Use anonymous sources only when absolutely necessary and with editor approval. Explain why anonymity is required and describe the source's qualifications.
Grammar & Mechanics
We follow AP Style with the following house modifications.
| Element | Rule | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Numbers | Spell out one through nine. Use figures for 10 and above. | three people, 12 delegates |
| Dates | Abbreviate month before day. No abbreviations alone. | Oct. 15, October 2025 |
| Time | Use numerals with a.m./p.m. No periods. | 2:30 p.m. → 2:30 pm |
| Percent | Always use the symbol %. | 50%, not 50 percent |
| Company Names | Include Inc., Ltd., Corp. on first mention only. | Aevum News Inc. |
| Aevum | Always "Aevum News" or "Aevum." Never "Aevum-News" or "AevumNews". | Aevum News |
House Style Guide
Quick reference for common Aevum style preferences.
Artificial Intelligence is used on first mention. Subsequently, AI. Never use "AI" as a verb. We do not write with AI assistance in editorial content; all copy must be human-authored and verified.
Sourcing
The integrity of Aevum rests on our sources.
Primary Sources
Prioritize official documents, data sets, and eyewitness accounts. Secondary sources should be used for context, not as the basis of claims.
Multiple Sources
Corroborate all significant claims with at least two independent sources. For exclusive allegations, use three.
Document Retention
Save all documents, recordings, and communications used in reporting. Retain for a minimum of five years. Upload to the secure editorial archive.
Conflict of Interest
Journalists must disclose any personal, financial, or professional relationships that could compromise perceived objectivity.
- Do not report on organizations where you have held a position within the last 12 months.
- Disclose stock holdings in companies you cover.
- Accept no gifts, travel, or hospitality from sources.
Corrections
Mistakes happen. How we handle them defines our credibility.
• Minor errors: Correct silently and note in CMS.
• Material errors: Issue a correction at the top and bottom of the article.
• Significant errors: Issue a standalone correction notice with editor approval.
• Always explain what was wrong and what is right.
SEO & Metadata
Good journalism deserves to be found. Follow these guidelines for discoverability.
Meta Description
Write a 150-160 character summary that includes the primary keyword naturally. Do not duplicate the headline.
URL Structure
Use lowercase, hyphenated, descriptive slugs. Example: /world/climate-summit-agreement-2025
Alt Text
All images must have descriptive alt text for accessibility and SEO. Describe the image content, not just the keyword.
Multimedia
Visuals enhance stories but must adhere to the same standards of accuracy.
- No AI-generated images in news reporting.
- Do not crop images to alter meaning.
- Color correction should be natural, not dramatic.
- All charts and data visualizations must be reviewed by the data desk.
Legal Compliance
Protect the publication and the subjects.
Copyright
Only use images, video, and text for which we have rights. Credit third-party content as required by license.
Privacy
Protect sources' identities when promised. Blur faces in images of victims or minors unless editorial necessity is approved by legal.
Defamation
Ensure all allegations are substantiated. Offer right of reply to subjects of criticism. Legal review required for sensitive litigation coverage.