Page:The practice of typography; correct composition; a treatise on spelling, abbreviations, the compounding and division of words, the proper use of figures and nummerals by De Vinne, Theodore Low, 1828-1914.djvu/121

 animal. When first used all the words should be in italic. The words Castoridae or Rodentia when re peated in the same article may be in roman, but the names of species should be in italic, however often repeated. The distinction prevents confusion.

Authorities in science differ as to the use of italic and capitals, but the rules here given are enough for the uniformity of negligently prepared copy. If the compositor finds another method in carefully prepared copy, he should observe that method. Italic is frequently used for the words of a running commentary bracketed in the text. The word [sic] is often selected to call attention to bad spelling or the improper use of a word. Comments set in roman and put in brackets should not need greater distinction.

Italic should be avoided in all lines (as in datelines and side-notes) in which upright figures are used. The contrast between straight roman and bent italic in the same word is unpleasing.

Quotations and extracts that make two or more lines, and really require a special paragraph, may be set in roman with quotation-marks if in the same type as the text, or without them if in smaller type with blank at top and bottom. This arrangement will be more pleasing than a paragraph of italic.

In book-work, italic parentheses should not be used for inclosing words in italic. Distinction is sought for the words, not for the points. In displayed job-work italic parentheses may be used.