Effective Writing Basics
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Questions and Answers

What are the five keys to effective writing?

Put the reader first, Use simple words and short sentences, Use jargon only when necessary, Write with verbs and nouns, Format to improve readability

Key #1 of effective writing: Put the ________ first.

reader

What is jargon?

  • Language used only by writers
  • Language used in a specific context that may not be well understood outside that context (correct)
  • Unnecessary complexity in writing
  • Simple and straightforward language
  • Why is it recommended to write with verbs and nouns?

    <p>To use active voice and improve readability</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Grouping information logically is an important aspect of effective writing.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Effective Writing Basics

    • Effective writing is about communication and understanding, not about impressing the reader
    • Put the reader first by using words they can picture and tying in to their experience

    Five Keys to Effective Writing

    Key #1: Put the Reader First

    • Communication = understanding
    • Write to express, not to impress
    • Use words readers can picture
    • Tie in to the reader's experience
    • Consider "What's in it for me?" (WIIFM)

    Key #2: Use Simple Words and Short Sentences

    • Avoid wordy sentences and use simple words
    • Example: "Here is the $25 remaining on my account." (8 words) is better than "Per our conversation, I am enclosing herewith a remittance of $25 for the balance due on my account." (18 words)
    • Avoid wordy prepositional phrases, e.g., "In the amount of" instead of "for"

    Key #3: Use Jargon Only When Necessary

    • Jargon is language used in a particular context that may not be well understood outside that context
    • Avoid using jargon unnecessarily, use simple language instead
    • Examples: "Global's new flight management system provides several ways to navigate your airplane, including the latest in satellite navigation." is better than "The new FMIS system from Global provides VOR/DME navigation redundancy, as well as enhanced GPS capability."

    Key #4: Write with Verbs and Nouns

    • Use active voice instead of passive voice
    • Examples: "The company sells insurance." is better than "Insurance is sold by the company."
    • Choose the right verb and noun, e.g., "Mr. Johnson sprinted across the boulevard, stumbling when he stepped in a pothole."

    Key #5: Format to Improve Readability

    • Use lists, bullets, charts, tables, indents, italics, bolds, headings, and subheadings to improve readability
    • Use the 100-word rule to limit paragraph length

    Planning, Organizing, and Writing

    • Before you begin, consider the audience, purpose, and reader's needs
    • As you begin, assemble information, determine what's important, and group information logically
    • Four ways to organize writing: division, compare/contrast, cause/effect, and problem-analysis-solution

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    Description

    Learn the fundamental tips to improve your writing skills in any medium, including putting the reader first and using simple language.

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