7 Rules Of Writing

Keep your sentences short and simple RULE 1 Keep your sentences short and simple Many make the mistake of trying to sound “smart” or being overly formal when they write. Don’t. Wrong Right There are some people who can’t take things seriously. Some people can’t take things seriously.

Use active voice in your writing RULE 2 Use active voice in your writing This rule of writing is simple. Just use active voice instead of passive. You’ll see that the text becomes more engaging right away. Wrong Right Great results were achieved by the students. The price was set by the distributor. The students achieved great results. The distributor set the price.

Use simple words and word combinations Eschew fancy. Embrace simple. RULE 3 Use simple words and word combinations Eschew fancy. Embrace simple. Wrong Right Utilize Commence Transparent Use Begin Clear

Insert quotes properly RULE 4 Insert quotes properly Include just enough text to make your point. There is seldom need for huge pieces of text. Instead, you can make a short introduction to make the point of a quote clearer.

RULE 4 Insert quotes properly Use proper punctuation before quotes: Use a colon after an independent clause. Mr. Long spoke to students: “Attention please!” 2. Use a comma after a clause or phrase. Mr. Long said, “Attention please!” 3. Use no punctuation with an integrated quote Mr. Long asked for “attention” from students.

Punctuate correctly to clarify meaning RULE 5 Punctuate correctly to clarify meaning Master the comma rules

Make your writing specific RULE 6 Make your writing specific While keeping your sentences short and to the point, you also need to provide your reader with enough details. It may seem that this writing rule conflicts with the first. Good writers learn to do both. Wrong Right The weather was quite unusual in the deep south yesterday. I like many different fruits. Louisiana had extremely hot weather yesterday I like many different fruits such as peaches, pears, and plums.

Write in parallel structure RULE 7 Write in parallel structure Wrong Right I respect people who are focused, hardworking, and have motivation. The software helps to manage tasks like communicating, writing logs, and formula calculations. I respect people who are focused, hardworking, and motivated. The software helps to manage tasks like communicating, writing logs, and calculating formulas.