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The goal of the EPR is to convey accurate information as simply as possible. To accomplish this, familiar, everyday words should be used and words and phrases that are not universally understood should be avoided. In addition, acronyms and abbreviations that are not widely known should not be used. EPRs will be read by people from a wide variety of career fields so it must be written using words that are understandable to everyone. When using acronyms, there is a rule that requires all acronyms and abbreviations to be defined before using them. By defined, they mean spelling the word or phrase out completely along with the abbreviation or acronym after it in parenthesis --like this: Window Washer (WW). After "defining" the acronym, the acronym (WW) may then be used alone throughout the rest of the document with the assumption that it is now understandable. In order to not waste space in the body of the EPR, the most efficient way to define acronyms you plan to use is in the admin blocks of the EPR (Organization, Job Description, Duty Title). That way you don't waste space in the body of the EPR where space is more critical. Note that when you define a term, you don't simply list the word and its abbreviation or acronym. It must be used appropriately in a sentence. So it's not always possible to define the acronym or abbreviation in the admin blocks. Minimize the use of acronyms that aren’t commonly understood across the Air Force. If the rater decides that it’s worth the space to introduce a new acronym to the EPR reader, it must be spelled out the first time it is used (as noted above) on each side of the EPR. Writers should critically question whether using the uncommon acronym or abbreviation contributes to the readability of the EPR and make every effort to use ordinary English keeping in mind that promotion boards are drawn from all Air Force career fields. If the acronym or abbreviation is used only once or twice, consider whether defining the term is actually conserving space. It may be more efficient to spell out the word every time and avoid using the acronym or abbreviation. Most commands or Wings have their own standards concerning what is acceptable on an EPR. If your organization has a documented standard listing approved abbreviations and acronyms, you should use it. If not, this guide serves as a general reference. Note that some words are never abbreviated. Never use abbreviations or acronyms in the Duty Title. It must be spelled out in all capital letters. But, some abbreviations and acronyms are so common that everyone understands what they stand for and to define them would be a waste of time and valuable EPR real estate. Below are some commonly accepted acronyms that do not have to be defined before using them. |