BOLD Educational Software Use of Hyphens

There are 5 general principles for using hyphens (though there ARE exceptions):

	If a compound adjective can be misread, use a hyphen. In a temporary compound that is used as an adjective before a noun, use a hyphen if the term can be misread or if the term expresses a single thought (i.e., all words together modify the noun). If a compound adjective follows the term, do not use a hyphen, because relationships are sufficiently clear without one. Write most words formed with prefixes as one word. When two or more compound modifiers have a common base, that base is sometimes omitted in all except the last modifier, but the hyphens are retained. (APA Publication Manual, Sixth Edition, pp. 98-100) The [role playing] was a successful technique. role playing role-playing The [role playing] technique was successful. role playing role-playing The [to be recalled] items were listed. to-be-recalled to be recalled [three quarters] of the way through three quarters three-quarters
	A [three quarters] majority was needed three quarters three-quarters The [pre test] and [post test] were compared pre-test and post-test pre test and post test pretest and posttest
	For more information on correct use of hyphens, see pages 97-100 of the 6th edition of the APA Manual or pages 89-94 of the 5th edition.
	Copyright BOLD Educational Software 2009 Diane M. Dusick, Ph.D. All Rights Reserved