5 Ways to “Write Tight” for Your Business
1. Omit needless words. This is the best advice to “write tight.” As William Strunk and E.B. White wrote in their classic grammar book, The Elements of Style, every word should “tell” or serve a purpose. When you’re done writing, see if removing certain words changes the overall meaning of your sentences. Make your sentences leaner and “meaner,” to strengthen them and pack more of a punch.
2. Plan. To keep your thoughts focused, create a list or an outline detailing your subject matter. Some people dislike planning, but this simple step helps me stay organized and on topic.
3. Set a word limit. Limit the scope of your piece to a certain number of words to help you cut the deadwood.
4. Prefer one word over two. For example, the two sentences below have a similar meaning, but one is more to the point:
A. Turn on the light.
B. Flip the switch.
5. Use bullet points. Bullet points help summarize key ideas. They work well for grouping words and phrases together, so you don’t always need to write complete sentences. For example:
Backing Crash Prevention
- Eliminate distractions
- Keep your eyes moving
- Use your mirrors
Quotes
“Four basic premises of writing: clarity, brevity, simplicity, and humanity.” ~ William Zinsser
“Brevity is the soul of wit.” ~ William Shakespeare, Hamlet
Comments? Suggestions? Need help with your writing? Feel free to contact me.
Michelle Troutman
classywriting.com