How to present information
I once had a prof who was a total geek; she loved her subject so much that she overwhelmed us with information. While her enthusiasm added interest, it was exhausting. Worse, …
Writing
Be Precise: 3 tips for powerful speaking & writing
Precise language is efficient and effective. Here are 3 ways to be more precise: 1. Avoid Adjectives and try not to use words like very and really. Use strong, clear words …
Subject Lines: Explicit is good
Clear, precise language in email subject lines increase the chance that people will read and respond to your message. Specific subject lines help readers understand: What you want If they can …
Layout Basics: Making your document attractive & usable
Effective layout and formatting make documents easier to scan, read and use. Effective document layout improves your reader’s first impression of the document, expectations, ability to quickly and easily find what they …
Personal, Active & Brief
We pay more attention when someone speaks directly to us. Salespeople know that, so do good writers, speakers, teachers and leaders. Write Like You Speak, and Speak Directly to Your …
Business Writing: The 3 Cs (a quick & easy method)
Is writing at work a challenge? You want to seem professional and competent but with so many other tasks competing for your attention, it’s hard to find the time to …
Promising Useful Content: 5-second cheatsheet
No one reads anymore. We scan a website or document, deciding in about 5 seconds if it merits attention. Does Your Document Pass the 5-Second Test? Physical elements such as formatting, colors …
Activate Your Verbs!
Active verbs make speaking and writing clear, efficient, and more interesting. Active verbs are usually easier to understand, which is important for international audiences. Wordy and inactive: Better: They made a …
How to Write Clear Instructions: 6 easy steps
Use lists where possible. Use a separate point or sentence for each action. Make the text large enough for visually impaired readers. Know your audience—who will be reading these instructions …
Negative Feedback: How to receive & respond to harsh responses
It’s easy to offend people—look at social media. Even if you’re not a puppy-kicking troll, chances are good that you will offend someone at least once in your life. Perhaps you purposely or accidentally …
Navigating Negative Feedback: How to fix problems and get what you want
Someone messed up. An employee mishandled a project; your new car is a lemon; the waiter forgot your meal. From big to small, problems can be solved—and often fixed—if you …
Communication Skills for Creative Professionals: How to attract & manage clients
You’re a designer, artist or developer. You’re not a writer and never claimed to be one; your clients hire you for your unique vision, not your ability to write. But …
Is Your Document Clear? A Checklist
This is a brief checklist to help you make sure that your document is easy, enjoyable, and rewarding to use. Layout—does this look readable and informative? __ Easy to see where …
Attract Your Audience with Powerful Titles
Good headings describe the contents of your presentation or document; great headings also entice your audience. I read the article Human Trafficking and Taco Bell Sauce only because of its intriguing …
Attractive & Efficient: Is your infographic successful?
An infographic is a magical combination of words and images that together convey information more efficiently than just text. Done well, infographics save your reader time and energy. But beware—infographics are …
Apostrophes, Contractions And Plurals (Oh My)
Apostrophes are running wild. They’re often used incorrectly or absent when needed. Some writers seem to insert them randomly, as if hopeful that a few might land in the right …