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How to write better instantly |
Sunday, 12 June 2005
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Is it possible to improve your writing instantly? The answer, says Rix Quinn, is "yes." While researching a book on famous speeches and essays, he found eight easily correctable mistakes writers often make.1. UNFOCUSED SUBJECT - Focus on a single theme only. Every sentence and paragraph should reinforce that topic. 1. UNFOCUSED SUBJECT - Focus on a single theme only. Every sentence and paragraph should reinforce that topic.2. TOO LONG - Abraham Lincoln crafted his Gettysburg Address in less than 300 words. "Unless I'm specifically asked to do otherwise, I try to condense my work to one double-spaced single page (about 250 words)," Quinn says.3. WEAK PREMISE - Can you state the major focus of your message in 20 words or less? 3. WEAK PREMISE - Can you state the major focus of your message in 20 words or less?4. NO ATTENTION-GRABBER - The first sentence or two must quickly attract the reader. Two ways to do this: (a) ask a question or (b) reveal a discovery.5. UNLINKED PARAGRAPHS - Each paragraph should logically lead to the next. One way some writers do this: (a) quickly write several paragraphs on a subject; ((b) prioritize them; (c) present them in descending order from most important to least important; (d) conclude by restating the two or three most important points. 5. UNLINKED PARAGRAPHS - Each paragraph should logically lead to the next. One way some writers do this: (a) quickly write several paragraphs on a subject; ((b) prioritize them; (c) present them in descending order from most important to least important; (d) conclude by restating the two or three most important points.6. PASSIVE VERBS - Passive verbs like is, am, was, and were simply exist. Action verbs run, jump, excite, and motivate. 7. BORE FACTOR - Some research says the average adult attention span is only eight seconds. So it's important to make your points convincingly, and end your paper powerfully. 8. WEAK ENDING - "Exit your report like an experienced stage performer...leave your audience wanting more," Quinn emphasizes. Two ways to do this: (a) use a famous quote to reinforce your conclusion, or (b) give details showing the reader where to get more information on the subject. (Examples: your phone, fax, e-mail, etc.) Article Source: http://www.ArticleBlast.com |
RIX QUINN authored the new book for people who hate to write. Order "Words That Stick" from your local bookstore, or http://www.tenspeed.com/catalog/all/item.php3?id=1661You are welcome to publish this article free of charge on your website, newsletter, or e-zine, provided:
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