’26 or 26 – What’s the Proper Abbreviation for the Year 2026?
When shortening the year 2026, is it correct to write ’26, 26, or even ‘26?
Quick Answer: The only correct abbreviation for the year 2026 is ’26.
You must use an apostrophe (’) before the numbers to indicate the omission of the century (“20”). Writing 26 without punctuation refers to the quantity twenty-six, not a year.
Crucial Note: The curve of the apostrophe must face left (like a closing single quote), even if it appears at the start of the word.
In this guide, we will cover the grammar rules, how to fix your word processor’s auto-formatting errors, and the specific rules for “Class of 2026” merchandise.
The Rule: Why the Apostrophe Matters
In English grammar, an apostrophe has two main jobs: indicating possession (John’s car) and indicating omission (contraction).
When you abbreviate a year, you are creating a contraction. You are removing the “20” from “2026.” Therefore, the apostrophe takes the place of the missing numbers.
- Correct: Summer of ’26 (Apostrophe replaces “20”)
- Incorrect: Summer of 26 (Reads as “Summer of [quantity] 26”)
The “Smart Quote” Glitch: How to Fix It
This is the most common error in professional writing and design.
Most software (Microsoft Word, Google Docs, Canva) uses “Smart Quotes” that automatically curl quotes based on context. If you type a space and then an apostrophe, the software thinks you are starting a quote, so it curls the mark the wrong way.
- The Error:
‘26(Opening single quote / Curve faces right). - The Correction:
’26(Apostrophe / Curve faces left).
How to type it correctly:
If your software curls it the wrong way:
- Type a dummy letter before the apostrophe (e.g.,
A'26). - The software will now see it as an apostrophe inside a word and curl it correctly (
A’26). - Delete the dummy letter
A. You are left with the correct ’26.
Style Guide Rulings
If you are writing for academic or journalistic purposes, here is how the major guides handle the year 2026:
| Style Guide | Rule | Example |
| AP Style | Use an apostrophe to indicate omitted figures. | “The class of ’26 graduated early.” |
| Chicago Manual | Acceptable in informal contexts; avoid in formal text. | “The blizzard of ’26.” |
| APA / MLA | Avoid abbreviations. Write the full year. | “The study was conducted in 2026.” |
“Class of 2026” vs. “Class of ’26”
For graduation merchandise, hoodies, and announcements, the abbreviation is standard. However, the design must respect the punctuation.
- Formal Invitations: Use the full year (“Class of Two Thousand Twenty-Six” or “Class of 2026”).
- Merchandise/Apparel: “Class of ’26” is the standard.
- Design Tip: Ensure the font you choose has a visible difference between an opening quote and an apostrophe. Some geometric fonts have straight vertical lines, which avoids the “curled wrong way” issue entirely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. The “Backwards” Apostrophe
Wrong: Class of ‘26
Why: This is an opening quotation mark. It implies someone is speaking.
Right: Class of ’26
2. The Missing Punctuation
Wrong: Back in 26
Why: This reads as “Back in [number] 26.” It looks like a typo or a missing word.
Right: Back in ’26
Summary Checklist
Before you hit publish or print on that “Class of ’26” banner, check the following:
- [ ] Did you use an apostrophe? (Not just the number 26).
- [ ] Is the apostrophe curved the correct way? (It should look like a closing quote:
’). - [ ] Is the context appropriate? (Use 2026 for formal documents, ’26 for casual or design).
