1. 7 Rules
Of Writing

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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

5. 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.

6. 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.

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

8. 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.

9. 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.