Techniques For Good Writing


by Ryan Basil - Date: 2007-02-05 - Word Count: 311 Share This!

1. Write Clearly

The key to clarity is simplicity. Don't try to educate your audience.

2. Use Simple Words

Short words are handy to use and are more powerful in effect. Don't send your readers running for the dictionary every few words.

i.e.- numerous - many

utilize - use

facilitate - ease

3. Use Simple Sentences

Don't cram as much information as possible into one sentence. It can become confusing to read. Instead, take the subject of each part and break it off into short, punchy sentences.

4. Don't Use More Words Than Necessary

The first cousin to simplicity is brevity. Writers should use the minimum number of words to express their ideas and information. When proofreading (always proofread), look at each sentence and see how you can shorten it.

5. Eliminate ALL Jargon

When I hear the word slug, I think of the first line in a news story written for broadcast. When you hear it, you probably think of a creepy crawl that leaves a slime trail. Consider the reader's lack of expertise in your field. That is, after all, why they look to you for guidance.

6. Use Familiar Words and Phrases

Don't introduce your readers to new words or sayings. It will slow down the flow of information and drive the audience away. The same goes for foreign phrases, which may even seem insulting. Those old cliques and proverbs your Grandfather taught you work well in conversation, not in informative writing. Save it for your grandchildren.

i.e. - C'est La Vie

7. Vary Sentence Type and Length

This helps keep the article interesting and makes taking in the information easier on the reader. It is also good practice for the writer as it forces you to write then re-write and examine different ways of expressing your idea.

8. Make Good Use of Verbs to Denote Action

The best thing to do is to use the most active tense of all your verbs.

i.e. - helps instead of helped

does as opposed to did


Related Tags: writing tips, write clearly, writing techniques

Ryan is Journalism student who writes for several websites, including

http://needlessproductions.com - Canadian Indie Music News

http://e-norther.com

http://gr8webhosting.info

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