ICIMOD Style Guide 2026

The editorial team developed this Style Guide to support clear, consistent, and reader focused writing across the outputs of the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD). It reflects editorial experience, taking on board recurring style questions, and aims to provide practical guidance rather than rigid rules. While it largely draws on the APA Publication Manual (Seventh Edition), the guide adapts conventions to suit ICIMOD’s institutional voice, audiences, and publishing contexts. As a living document, it will continue to evolve as our writing practices and communication needs change.

This guide is not a grammar textbook. Instead, it helps resolve common style conflicts and supports informed choices when multiple options exist. By following it, we can ensure consistency in language, tone, and formatting across all ICIMOD outputs, from research reports and policy briefs to social media posts and event materials. At ICIMOD, we prioritise clarity of thought, consistency within a document, and alignment with the Style Guide, in that order. Clear writing reflects clear thinking, and consistent style strengthens ICIMOD’s professional voice across platforms