Simmons University Editorial Style Guide

The Simmons Style Guide covers style rules particular to Simmons University, as well as some selected grammar and punctuation rules. This guide applies to any communications produced by Simmons University.

If you have a general question about grammar or punctuation that is not specific to Simmons and not included in this guide, we recommend referencing the Chicago Manual of Style (18th edition). 

The Simmons Style Guide will be periodically updated by University Communications.

Download the latest print version of the Simmons Style Guide

Accessing the Chicago Manual of Style (CMS)

Simmons University has a subscription to the Chicago Manual of Style, which is accessible if you are on the Simmons campus, or if you are using the Simmons VPN while off-campus. 

Instructions to use the VPN can be found at servicedesk.simmons.edu. The VPN then requires one additional configuration step that must be completed in order to access CMS.

Configure the VPN Options to access the Chicago Manual of Style

If you are using the Simmons VPN (the Endpoint Security VPN application) to access themChicago Manual of Style, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Go to “VPN Options" from your toolbar.
2. When the Check Point Mobile - Options pop-up appears, select "Properties".
3. When the Properties of vpn.simmons.edu appears, select the "Settings" tab. Then make sure “Encrypt all traffic and route to gateway” is checked.

You may need to restart your computer for these changes to take effect.