This document provides guidelines for proper grammar, punctuation, and style when writing for Make-A-Wish. It discusses 10 key areas: 1) formality vs informality in language, 2) avoiding ambiguity, 3) using parallel structure, 4) placing modifiers correctly, 5) consistent pronoun usage, 6) minimizing slang and jargon, 7) how to refer to Make-A-Wish chapters, 8) sensitivity when discussing illnesses, 9) capitalizing "Wish" in certain contexts, and 10) proper use of relative pronouns. Examples are given of correct and incorrect usages for each guideline to promote clear, professional communication.

1. 1
5 Grammar and Usage
5.1 Formality In order to maintain an impression of professionalism, it is important to
understand when to use formal language and when to use informal language. Contracts,
mandates, and memos tend to be formal; e-mails, blogs, and newsletters are usually informal.
The words used within these forms of communication should adhere to the tone, style, and
appropriateness levels of both the authors and intended audiences. Differentiating between
formal and informal communication—and knowing when to use each type—will help establish
credibility for Make-A-Wish among its affiliates.
Jason wished he could visit Europe and tour Paris, France.
-NOT-
Jason proposed to locate in Europe and journey throughout Paris, France.
5.2 Ambiguity Ambiguity is when aspects of sentence or clause have more than one meaning,
resulting in confusion and a misinterpretation of the message. Often, it comes when one does not
specify one’s intentions or choices in what was written. Because of its international dealings,
Make-A-Wish must communicate with people from all around the world where English is often a
second language. Assisting in global English, the specificity of ideas will help diminish
ambiguity and allow a clear, reliable text.
Janette told Susan that Janette’s wish to be a ballerina was admirable. / Janette told
Susan that Susan’s wish . . . .
-NOT-
Janette told Susan that her wish to be a ballerina was admirable.
5.3 Parallel Structure Parallel language invokes a sense of sameness or equality in written form
where words and phrases of equal value are given equal treatment in their structures. Parallel
structure might include using the same verb tenses in a list, keeping the same pronoun cases in a
clause, or spelling a word the same way throughout a text. Abiding by parallel structure will
make written documentation more understandable.
It is also important to note that words should always be spelled the same way instead of hopping
from one spelling to another (even if both spellings are acceptable). Global English calls for
parallelism and consistency throughout communication to avoid confusion (Weiss 46).
Johnny’s wish was as follows: first, he would fly to Australia; second, he would travel to
Sydney; third, he would bus to the opera and orchestra. Once there, Johnny would be honored
for his story—an honor he wouldn’t soon forget.
-NOT-
Johnny’s wish was as follows: first, he would fly to Australia; then John took the train to
Sydney; he’ll be busing to the opera and orchestra. Once there, Jonny would be honoured for
his story—an honor he wouldn’t soon forget.

2. 2
5.4 Misplaced Modifiers Modifiers are subordinate clauses which restate or add meaning to the
subject of a sentence. Sometimes these clauses are placed at the end of a sentence following
either an indirect or direct object, but they are meant to modify the subject of the main clause.
Thus, misplaced modifiers create confusion and irregularities within the sentence. When using
modifiers, one should almost always put them after the subject they modify and before the
predicated verb phrase to avoid confusion and ambiguity.
Nathan, in his super hero suit, fought an evil villain and saved the city.
-NOT-
Nathan fought an evil villain in his super hero suit and saved the city. (Ambiguous)
5.5 Third-person Pronoun Agreement To refer to a non-specified person, it is best to avoid the
use of the generic he or any other form of gendered language. Instead, use a neutral pronoun.
However, one should be consistent in which pronoun one has chosen, as changing pronouns can
be confusing for people, especially those to which English isn’t a primary language. Avoid such
infractions as person . . . they (singular to plural); the generic he; and especially he/she. Instead,
substitute the neutral one; use specified names; or reword the sentence completely.
If a child is chosen, the child will receive a wish, make a wish, and get a second chance at
happiness and hope.
-NOT-
If a child is chosen, he will receive a wish, they will make a wish, and he/she will get a
second chance at happiness and hope.
5.6 Slang and Jargon While slang and jargon might be a part of everyday language, it is best to
avoid in order to promote and maintain the professionalism and clarity that Make-A-Wish sets as
a standard in writing and communication. Likewise, jargon, idioms, and metaphoric rhetoric can
be ambiguous for globalized English speakers (Weiss 58). Unless specifically quoting an
individual, one should avoid at all costs the use of these words, terms, and phrases.
Everyone smiled and laughed as three-year-old Tasha talked with her favorite singer.
She felt comfortable and right at home.
-NOT-
Everyone, like, smiled and laughed as three-year-old Tasha chewed the fat with her
favorite singer. LOL! She was like a diva in a disco, baby!
5.7 Chapters Although originally a local foundation in 1980, Make-A-Wish has greatly
expanded and now has various locations throughout the United States. Each regional branch is
known as a chapter. Each one serves the children from a specific area. When addressing a
specific chapter, its name will appear following the organization’s name, e.g. Make-A-Wish
Mid-South. The word chapter isn’t used in the title.
The people from Make-A-Wish Utah helped Bryan by giving him a chance of a lifetime.
-NOT-
The people from Make-A-Wish, Utah chapter, helped Bryan by giving him a chance of a
lifetime.

3. 3
5.8 Diseases Particular attention should be made on how diseases and illnesses are addressed in
writing. Blunt and forward detail about medical conditions and illnesses, especially when
referring to a child, isn’t appropriate and should never be used. Additionally, focus should be on
the children and their wishes, not on the diagnoses. If it is necessary to address the diagnosis of a
child, use a brief, general description and avoid language and words which reflect a negative
connotation. However stated, be sensitive to the readers and audience.
Justin’s leukemia didn’t stop him from driving around the track with NASCAR’s Jeff
Gordon.
-NOT-
Justin has cancer; his blood cells make him sick, but it didn’t stop him from driving
around the track with NASCAR’s Jeff Gordon.
5.9 Wish Wishes are the dreams, hopes, and aspirations of children that each chapter grants.
These wishes bring hope and happiness to the lives of not only the children but also their
families and everyone involved in the wish. Make-A-Wish grants wishes to every eligible child
regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, religion, and social background.
Although used as both a noun and verb, wish can also be a proper noun that particularly pertains
to the entire experience of a child from the point they are chosen to receive a wish to the
conclusion. Often used as a proper noun in this context, the word wish is capitalized.
Amanda’s Wish was to take a Caribbean cruise; her dream came true, thanks to some
generous donations from her local community.
-NOT-
Amanda Wished to take a Caribbean cruise; her dream came true, thanks to some
generous donations from her local community.
5.10 Relatives That, Which, and Who In sub-clauses, such as subject/predicative complements
or restrictive/non-restrictive sentences, the use of relatives requires one to match the relativized
word with the correct noun from the main clause. This means that the main noun phrase must
have the correct relativized complement to be clear and concise in meaning and to convey a
proper, professional structure in clausal syntax and grammar.
The firefighter who took Greg on patrol said the experience was unforgettable.
Some costumes, which were donated by volunteers, had to be stitched up before Katie’s
dance Wish could begin.
-NOT-
The firefighter that took Greg on patrol said the experience was unforgettable.
Some costumes, that were donated by volunteers, had to be stitched up before Katie’s
dance Wish could begin.

4. 4
6 Punctuation
6.1 Serial Commas When a list or series of items is presented, a comma is used to separate each
item. While some people insist that a comma isn’t needed before the conjunction in such a series,
Chicago states that this comma, known as a serial comma, is necessary (Chicago 6.18). Serial
commas help to avoid confusion, as they can distinguish between isolated items and items of
parataxis. Make-A-Wish will follow Chicago on this rule and use serial commas.
Organizers for Clara’s trip had to contact Indonesia, book a hotel, and buy airline tickets.
-NOT-
Organizers for Clara’s trip had to contact Indonesia, book a hotel and buy airline tickets.
6.2 Hyphenated Compounds Not all compound words need hyphens; many are grammatically
correct without them. Other compounds, however, require the use of hyphens in their spellings.
Sometimes two words are linked together by a hyphen to form a compound specific to a sentence
or meaning. In any case, consult a dictionary to make sure compound words are spelled correctly
and hyphens are used appropriately. See Chicago 6.76 for additional questions on hyphens.
Kyle and his six-year-old sister, Patrice, ate Tai food at a well-respected Disney resort.
-NOT-
Kyle and his six year old sister, Patrice, ate Tai food at a well respected Disney resort.
6.3 Brackets When changing the wording in a quote to better fit the framework of a text, always
use brackets instead of parentheses. Brackets are used to show that a quoted piece of text has
been altered to help maintain the ideas and structure of the sentence that contains the quote.
Parentheses cannot be used to change portions of quotes unless they are originally part of the
quote. Brackets should always be used when a quoted text is slightly changed. (Chicago 6.97)
The coordinators for the ducky derby said that “[they were] going to give away a car to
the person whose rubber duck wins the race”.
-NOT-
The coordinators for the ducky derby said that “(they were) going to give away a car to
the person whose rubber duck wins the race”.
6.4 Exclamation Points Exclamation points punctuate for excitement, shock, or awe but can
lead to disarray and discredit a text when overused (Chicago 6.71). Often an exclamation point
can be redundant, as the words it follows may have already elicited the desired effect. Unless
used in a direct quote or as a point of extreme emphasis, it is recommended that exclamation
points not be used. Instead, reframe the sentence to convey the desired meaning.
“Wow,” Melanie said as she gazed at her dress design on a billboard. “I never dreamed
that my dresses would end up on a giant TV in New York City.”
-NOT-
“Wow!” Melanie said as she saw her dress design on a billboard. “I never dreamed that
my dresses would end up on a giant TV in New York City!”

5. 5
6.5 Dashes and Hyphens When using hyphens and dashes in writing, it is important that the
punctuation marks are used in their proper places and in the correct contexts. Chicago
distinguishes the differences between em dashes, en dashes, and hyphens and outlines when and
how to use each one within written communication. Em dashes can be used in place of commas,
colons, or semicolons, or they can be used to indicate sudden breaks. En dashes are used for
compound adjectives and number sequences. Hyphens connect compound words and can be used
as separators. In order to produce the professionalism and clarity that Make-A-Wish stands for,
the rule for dashes and hyphens, as outlined in Chicago (6.78–6.91), should be followed.
Cody’s wheelchair barely fit into the plane; the door—the entryway to the 747—seemed
to be about 5–6 inches too narrow, so the eight-year-old had to wait while his chair was folded
up before he could enter.
-NOT-
Cody’s wheelchair barely fit into the plane; the door- the entryway to the 747- seemed
to be about 5-6 inches too narrow, so the eight year old had to wait while his chair was folded
up before he could enter.
6.6 Quotation Marks There are two types of quotation marks: curly quotes, also known as smart
quotes (“”) and straight quotes (""). Many publications and online sites use straight quotes.
However, straight quotes shouldn’t be used for punctuation. Do not use straight quotes for either
formal or informal communication for Make-A-Wish. Rather, smart quotes are the preferred
quotation marks.
The foreign liaison told the family that he would “be here to help in any way possible.”
-NOT-
The foreign liaison told the family that he would "be here to help in any way possible."
7 Spelling, Distinctive Treatment of Words, and Compounds
7.1 Uncommon Words Just as foreign words can make it hard to understand what the meaning
behind clauses and sentences is, so can unfamiliar English words. If language and words are too
formal then mix-ups and confusions can build and cause problems for readers. Though many
people around the globe can speak English, the language still contains uncommon words and
expressions. Global English calls for clarity in these events to help everyone understand such
language (Weiss 39). For words that are not foreign to English but could be considered
unfamiliar to a majority of everyday readers, one should italicize, define, or revise these words.
The nurses were bona fide, or genuine, when they said that Nelly’s condition would be
benefited by a quid pro quo (of an equal exchange) Wish that would allow Nelly to be a kid
again.
-NOT-
The nurses were bona fide when they said that Nelly’s condition would be benefited by
a quid pro quo Wish that would allow her to be a kid again.

6. 6
7.2 Ending Words in a Line Whenever long words are at the end of a line in running text, it is
recommended that the word not be split up with a hyphen. If a word doesn’t fit on the end of a
line, put it at the beginning of the next line. If hyphens must be used to separate the word, add
after syllable breaks. For compound words, split the compound.
Jill didn’t want to miss her trip to Thailand, so she ended her treatments for
Leukodystrophy a week earlier.
-NOT-
Jill didn’t want to miss her trip to Thailand, so she ended her treatments for Leukody-
strophy a week earlier.
7.3 IPA Some words, like medical terminologies or foreign expressions, may be hard to
pronounce for readers, especially those whose primary language isn’t English. Sounds, though
normal for one culture or group, will not directly translate to another culture or group (Weiss 94).
Foreign words or medical terminologies may be hard for different people to say. In formal
circumstances where this may be the case, one should consult the IPA, or International Phonetic
Alphabet, to see how to pronounce these words. Insert the IPA spelling in brackets directly after
the word. In informal writing, the IPA transcription may be omitted.
Niklas was born in Herbolzheim [hǝrbolžhajm], Germany, and his Wish was to see the
city he was born in; consequently, we made an acquisition for his passport to be renewed.
-NOT-
Niklas was born in Herbolzheim, Germany, and his Wish was to see the city he was born
in; consequently, we made an acquisition for his passport to be renewed.
8 Names and Terms
8.1 Names of Places and Locations Commas are used to separate cities and their states or
countries in writing. The full name of places should always be used, separated with a comma.
This punctuation will allow people from all across the world who are not familiar with a location
to know where a city or town is located, providing a cultural awareness of various peoples, and it
will add clarity according to Global English (Weiss, 3). However, for cities and places that are
internationally known (e.g. Paris, Moscow, or New York), it is not necessary to add the entire
name of the location. If one doesn’t know whether a place should be used in its entirety or not, it
is strongly advised to put the full name.
Joanna’s backstage tour of Hollywood was more exciting than anything she had ever
done in Henderson, Nevada.
-NOT-
Joanna’s backstage tour of Hollywood was more exciting than anything she had ever
done in Henderson.

7. 7
8.2 Names of Organizations When dealing with international people and places, it is
professional and ethical to address other organizations with correctness. Always spell out the
names of organizations as they appear (paying close attention to capitalization of words), and
never try to shorten or abbreviate their names unless the name itself is shortened or abbreviated.
By so doing, Make-A-Wish will maintain their professionalism and help maintain their credited
international business relationships.
Among Make-A-Wish’s supporters for helping children with severe medical challenges
are the American Cancer Society and JDRF International.
-NOT-
Among Make-a-Wish’s supporters for helping children with severe medical challenges
are the ACS and JDRFI.
8.3 Professional Titles With international correspondence and global English, clarification and
formality are important when addressing people from other cultures and backgrounds (Weiss
106). Often, professional titles are capitalized when referring to individuals of organizations or
of other various statuses. This is a mistake. Titles should only be capitalized when preceding the
name of the persons they address. Additionally, redundancy should be avoided with titles that
come after a name, such as M.D. or Ph.D. and those at the beginning of a name. Titles that don’t
appear with a name in running text should never be capitalized. Follow Chicago (8.18).
Submitting his game designs to Satoru Iwata, the president and CEO of Nintendo, was
Shaun’s dream.
-NOT-
Submitting his game designs to Satoru Iwata, the President and CEO of Nintendo, was
Shaun’s dream.
8.4 Make-A-Wish Titles Global English strives to provide clarity in all aspects of writing and
editing through consistency and simplicity. Because Make-A-Wish is known by different titles,
there are many ways the organization can be addressed. However, when specifically referring to
certain chapters of Make-A-Wish, the chapter should follow the title, in its shortened form,
withholding the term “chapter.” For an overall reference to the organization, use the shortened
title when repeating the name to avoid wordiness. Make-A-Wish will always be italicized unless
it is stated in a longer title, such as Make-A-Wish Foundation or Make-A-Wish America.
The Make-A-Wish Foundation, or Make-A-Wish America, is an internationally recognized
organization; Make-A-Wish has many regional locations within the United States, such as Make-
A-Wish Utah.
-NOT-
The Make-A-Wish Foundation of America, or Make-A-Wish America, is an internationally
recognized organization; Make-A-Wish has many regional locations within the United States,
such as Make-A-Wish Foundation Utah Chapter.

8. 8
8.5 Medical Terms Medical terms, such as diagnoses and treatments, can be unfamiliar to many
individuals. When referring to a Make-A-Wish child’s diagnosis or treatment, try to give a brief
description of the term, so as to add further meaning and hinder confusion. However, define the
term only if it is found to be necessary or appropriate; otherwise, either state the term and move
on or omit the term altogether.
Sometimes benign (non-cancerous) brain tumors, watched closely through MRIs, can
still qualify a child for a Wish-granted experience.
-NOT-
Sometimes benign brain tumors, watched closely through MRIs (Magnetic Resonance
Image machines), can still qualify a child for a Wish-granted experience.
8.6 Less Familiar Terms To better emphasize meaning and proficiency in clarity, it is necessary
to define any term that may be unclear or ambiguous to readers. Doing so will add elements of
familiarity (Weiss 132) to your writing that English speakers worldwide can understand; global
English aims to make English easier to comprehend and more applicable to non-native speakers.
By describing or redefining potentially unclear terminologies or phrases, one can improve clarity
of writing.
Ethan’s febrile (feverish) symptoms made it difficult for him to remain calm and
composed, but the fresh ocean air and soothing water sounds helped him feel at peace.
-NOT-
Ethan’s febrile symptoms made it difficult for him to remain calm and composed, but
the fresh ocean air and soothing water sounds helped him feel at peace.
9 Numbers
9.1 Comparisons Numbers should be spelled out in running text unless they are associated with
a specified event, such as time or age. When talking about a certain time, use the numeric umber.
Write it out only if there is an addition to the time that addresses the point of day (like morning,
evening, afternoon, etc.). Otherwise, put the time numerically and add the am or pm afterwards.
Note: use lowercase letters without periods to denote morning or afternoon (am or pm). For age,
do not use the numeric number if the conjoining phrase ‘year-old’ is attached. If talking about
duration of time, spell out the number (e.g. the treatment was seven years old).
Sierra, age 7, had to undergo treatment at 9:00 am before she visited the national parks
in California. / Seven-year-old Sierra had to undergo treatment at nine in the morning . . .
-NOT-
Sierra, age seven, had to undergo treatment at nine am before she visited the national
parks in California. / 7-year-old Sierra had to undergo treatment at 9 in the morning before . . .

9. 9
9.2 Lists and Consistency Some organizations spell out numbers from 0 to 9 and use numeric
digits for other numbers (see Chicago 9.3). Other companies, however, prefer to spell out
numbers from 0 to 100 (Chicago 9.2). Though both choices are correct, Make-A-Wish will
follow Chicago 9.3 and spell out numbers from 0 to 9.
In lists of numbers, consistency is vital to adhere to parallel language. Follow the rules according
to the first number in the list.
On his trip to Sea World, Collin saw three sharks, eighteen rays, and twenty-six turtles.
-NOT-
On his trip to Sea World, Collin saw three sharks, 18 rays, and 26 turtles.
On his trip to Sea World, Collin saw 3 sharks, 18 rays, and 26 turtles.
10 Abbreviations
10.1 Acronyms and Initialisms When using acronyms and initialisms, do not use periods
between letters. Periods, though sometimes preferred, draw attention to the abbreviation and may
cause confusion to non-native English speakers. Both should be capitalized in their entirety.
Danni was so excited for her CBS broadcasting Wish to start that she almost went AWOL
from the hospital.
-NOT-
Danni was so excited for her C.B.S. broadcasting Wish to start that she almost went awol
from the hospital.
10.2 Uncommon Acronyms and Initialisms Sometimes when dealing with organizations and
medical facilities, there may be some uncommon acronyms or initialisms that are unfamiliar to
the public or common audience. It is best to avoid these abbreviations altogether; instead, use
alternative language. If avoidance isn’t an option, spell out the abbreviation. This will follow the
outlines of global English, making it easier for non-English natives to understand the meaning of
the sentence without hindering their interpretation or forcing them to halt their reading to define
unclear terms (Weiss 39).
Jesse’s chart indicated that he had shortness of breath, so Make-A-Wish had to get
clearance from the doctors regarding his total lung capacity before he was allowed to begin his
Wish.
-NOT-
Jesse’s chart indicated that he had SOB, so Make-A-Wish had to get clearance from the
doctors regarding his TLC before he was allowed to begin his Wish.

10. 10
11 Foreign Language
11.1 Foreign Words Unlike many countries where English is a secondary language, the United
States doesn’t have a secondary language (Weiss 5). However, English has adopted many words
from various languages that are now a part of the language. These foreign terms may be
confusing for even native speakers. For clarity and a better understanding to both native and non-
native English speakers, any foreign word that isn’t a standardized, accepted English word
should be italicized in running text. This will grant a more universal distinction between native
and borrowed words in English, which adheres to International English.
Pay attention, though, that not too many foreign words are used, as the words can add confusion
or disarray to the meaning and comprehension of the sentences they are in (for both native and
non-native speakers). This avoidance, or rewording of ideas completely, will assist those people
learning English to distinguish between English and other languages.
Grace was excited to meet her idol mano a mano, so she eagerly stood up.
-NOT-
Grace was excited to meet her idol mano a mano, so she eagerly stood up.