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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
Plain Language: Can You Draw A Picture Of Your Sentence?
In the quest for clarity, I’ve devised a simple test: Can you draw a picture of it? If you can easily turn your words into images, it’s a safe bet that …
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 …
7 Swift Steps To Better Communication
Identify your goal—what exactly do you want your audience to know or do? Identify your audience—who are they, what do they need to know, what do they already know, what’s …
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 …