The HGNC approves a unique and meaningful name for every known human gene,[4][5] based on a query of experts.

In addition to the name, which is usually 1 to 10 words long, the HGNC also assigns a symbol (a short group of characters) to every gene.

It may not necessarily "stand for" the initials of the name, although many gene symbols do reflect that origin.

This can result in less common abbreviations being selected but reduces confusion as to which gene is referred to.

"[7] The HGNC has also issued guides to specific locus types such as endogenous retroviral loci,[8] structural variants[9] and non-coding RNAs.