Hyphen use has been largely a matter of personal preference. The lack of definitive answers to hyphenation might create confusion, especially for non-native speakers and new writers. However, we, fortunately, have general guidance from the AP Stylebook on how to use hyphens.
You should primarily use hyphens to clarify meaning or produce a single idea from multiple words. Like these:
The HR Manager has the primary decision-making authority.
Our data-driven culture has helped us rise above the competition.
I re-sent the email. (vs. I resent the email.)
There are also a few cases where you should avoid hyphenating.
No hyphen is required for -ly adverbs.
Incorrect: We are a newly-established company.
Correct: We are a newly established company.
Incorrect: We come up with environmentally-friendly solutions to preserve our ecosystem.
Correct: We come up with environmentally friendly solutions to preserve our ecosystem.
Many compound expressions are hyphenated before a noun but not when they come after the noun they describe.
“A full-time copyeditor” vs. “She works full time.”
“An up-to-date method” vs. “The method is up to date.”
When in doubt, feel free to email your copyeditors.
