More on writing, and getting read

More uninvited advice:

Learn something about the art and science of writing. Many good writers use a device of their own invention. A device is a kind of trademark style or the use of irony, sarcasm, wit, comedy or even a peculiar insight, often several of these combined, in a unique way. If you aren't terribly creative, it's OK to emulate an author whose work you respect, but be careful, plagiarism can get you into trouble. Use the style, not the substance.

Try to use words that are comfortable in speech. Since most people read at a 10th grade level or less, the use of argot or jargon will frequently leave the reader as clueless at the end as at the beginning. You are writing to make a point , aren't you? If you muddy the water, don't be surprised if no one drinks it.

It's OK to use precise words when precision is important, but avoid the trap of pedantry. No one is impressed with bombastic prose when single syllables will serve.

Learn the difference between active and passive voice and use them appropriately.

Try to anticipate "loaded" words and their effects. Also be aware that assumptions lead to ambiguity.


One really important thing to learn if you want to write well is how to read. Seriously! Get a newspaper and proofread a longer article for grammar and word usage. Then read it again and pick out the facts. Read it again and pick out the writer's opinions. Look at the structure of the article and then at the structure of each paragraph. Use different colored highlighter pens to mark the article up at each step.

Count how many words of more than three syllables the author uses.

Create an outline of the article and note facts and assertions.

Take the lessons learned from each article you analyze and apply them to your own writing. You will likely be surprised at the mistakes made by someone who is paid to write for a living, and being aware of their mistakes will help you avoid making the same ones.


Then take the new knowledge and write the article yourself, using the same facts, but draw your own conclusions. Try to emulate the author's style and structure, but make the article a product of your own perspective. Keep the reading level to the same (number of polysyllabic words) audience.

Now, just for fun, write the same article just as you would expect to see it written for a college professor of English. Use big words. Be pedantic.

Finally, try to write the same article for a 5th grader. Use easy words. Stay away from metaphor, analogy and irony.


Now compare and contrast the different versions. Be realistic about which you prefer and which is most comfortable to write and which is easiest to read.

No one ever said writing is easy. It requires thought and planning to succeed at informing and persuading your audience. If you practice, you will improve. That will increase your comfort level, making your writing more natural and understandable.

Good writing is just like talking to a friend, the only thing is that most people have a LOT more experience talking than writing.

Cheers,

conhed