# Editorial Style Exception Log

Document a justified exception to house style with its context, scope, rationale, authority, examples, localization impact, expiry, and reconsideration trigger.

## Usage note

Use this log for repeatable or consequential departures from house style, not every editor’s harmless judgment call. The exception cannot override factual accuracy, law, accessibility, safety, or another mandatory standard. Name the authorized style owner and keep the scope narrow enough that writers know when the normal rule still applies.

## How to use this template

1. Cite the current rule and demonstrate the specific context in which it creates a material problem.
2. Confirm that the authorized style owner—not an unrelated requester—owns the decision.
3. Define the smallest useful scope, examples, exclusions, effective period, and affected content.
4. Record approval, localization and tooling implications, communication, and migration work.
5. Audit use and either close, renew, narrow, or convert the exception into a formal guide revision.

## Blank template

### Exception identity

- **Log ID:** [Durable identifier]
- **Style guide and version:** [Link and date]
- **Normal rule:** [Quote briefly]
- **Conflict context:** [Where it fails]
- **Reader or workflow effect:** [Why the departure matters]
- **Requester:** [Name or role]
- **Style owner:** [Authorized decision role]

### Scoped decision

- **Exception:** [Approved departure]
- **Applies to:** [Asset, channel, product, term class, or locale]
- **Does not apply to:** [Boundary]
- **Correct example:** [Use in context]
- **Incorrect expansion:** [What remains disallowed]
- **Rationale:** [Clarity, accuracy, respect, usability, or another]
- **Effective period:** [Start and expiry]

### Implementation

- **Existing content action:** [Keep, migrate, or audit]
- **Localization impact:** [Language-specific treatment]
- **Automated check impact:** [Rule suppression or message]
- **Communication:** [Audience and channel]
- **Migration owner:** [Role and due date]
- [ ] The exception does not alter a mandatory external requirement.
- [ ] Related terminology and naming decisions are linked.
- [ ] Contributors can find it using likely search words.

### Review

- **Approved by:** [Name or role]
- **Approval date:** [YYYY-MM-DD]
- **Audit result:** [Sample and finding]
- **Review trigger:** [Confusion, recurrence, guide update, or locale feedback]
- **Outcome:** [Close / Renew / Narrow / Formal policy change]