What is the preferred abbreviation to use first, i.e. or e.g.? Why do most writers, publishers, educators, and academics prefer this abbreviation?

What is the preferred abbreviation to use first, i.e. or e.g.?

These two abbreviations have different meanings. It is mandatory, not just preferred, to choose the meaning that you intend.

Why do most writers, publishers, educators, and academics prefer this abbreviation?

All these people, if they know what they are doing, prefer to choose the abbreviation that has the appropriate meaning.

The abbreviation “i.e.” means “that is.” In other words, it is a statement that what follows it is the same thing as what precedes it. One might say “the state with the largest population, i.e. California, has the largest number of electoral votes.”

The abbreviation “e.g.” means “for instance.” One might say “the less populous states, e.g. Vermont and South Dakota, have lower numbers of electoral votes.”

These two abbreviations are often misused, even by people who should know better.

Each one of these abbreviations is a reference to a two-word Latin phrase, but I will not delve into the Latin here. I am discussing the Engllish language, not Latin.

=======================================================