Manual of Style Governing Composition and Proof Reading in the Government Printing Office

"Manual of Style Governing Composition and Proof Reading in the Government Printing Office" is a reference guide written in the late 19th century. This manual is aimed at providing clear rules and standards for writing, composition, and proofreading specifically for use within the Government Printing Office. It covers a variety of topics, including abbreviations, capitalization, and formatting for bills, among other essential guidelines that are crucial for ensuring consistency and quality in government documents. The opening of the manual outlines the necessity for clear and established rules in the context of government printing to minimize confusion and avoid delay or unnecessary cost. The preface emphasizes the importance of authors preparing their manuscripts meticulously and provides practical suggestions to both authors and the printing staff for producing high-quality printed materials. The manual also lists various topics it will cover, such as orthography, geographical names, and specific guidelines related to typesetting and layout for various government documents and records, indicating a comprehensive approach to establishing a standardized style within governmental communications.