List of Abbreviations
A list of abbreviations can help readers navigate a document with many shortened forms. The Australian Government Style Manual recommends using such a list when useful, while keeping it distinct from the glossary and explaining unfamiliar forms for accessibility.
Use a list of abbreviations when readers would benefit from a compact alphabetical lookup; still define unfamiliar shortened forms at first use when the governing style requires it.
Key details
Important caveats
Accessibility Boundary
A back-matter list does not automatically replace first-use explanation for unfamiliar acronyms or initialisms; follow the applicable accessibility and house-style rules.
Further guidance
Organization
Arrange entries alphabetically and give each shortened form its full expression or clear explanation.
When Useful
Add the list when a report contains enough shortened forms that a lookup aid materially helps the reader; do not create one merely because a few abbreviations appear.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Reports — Australian Government Style Manual (opens in a new tab)Australian Government Style Manual · Report front matter, lists of shortened forms, glossary placement and alphabetical organization
- Acronyms and initialisms — Australian Government Style Manual (opens in a new tab)Australian Government Style Manual · Accessibility and glossary guidance for acronyms and initialisms