English Overview The Rules of Formal Writing

Common concern I know what I want to say but I can’t write it down! If you can speak English, you can write English

Formal rules of writing Correct font: –Arial is a preferred font for writing (size 12)_ –Calibri is acceptable (size 11 or 12) –Times New Roman should only be used for letters Correct spacing: –1.5 is preferred spacing –Set paragraphs at ‘0’ before and after Correct grammar and spelling Good attention to detail

Written word There are some differences between the formal written word and the spoken word: –No contractions (don’t, won’t, couldn’t) –No abbreviations (etc, eg.) –No first person (I, we, me, you) –No slang (yous) –No swearing (unless in court documentation) –No text message language (2 u, WTF)

Big words Big words are not the key to good writing. Consider the following: –State what is necessary –Use good sentence structure –Use simple plain English –Write what you want to say – and then adjust the structure if necessary Instead of :For a moment it appeared that the precipitation would render the need for a whole new wardrobe. Try:This much rain will ruin their clothes

Some tips Numbers between one and ten should be written as words Numbers over ten should be written as numerals – 11, 12, 13 Etc is a word and should be written as etcetera Eg. Should be written as For example

Formal English manners Always assume that the reader knows nothing about your discussion Do not use upper case for emphasis – this is shouting at the reader Do not use italics for emphasis Do not use bold font except for headings

Presentation Formal writing does not require pictures or coloured text No need to indent paragraphs All text should be aligned on the left A single enter space between paragraphs Make your document something worthy of presentation to the Commissioner of Police