0
Elements of Writing Style
5 years agoElements of Writing Style
I’m not certain writing is something that can be taught; writing seems to me more an art form, a thing that is felt - demanding expression; a beast roaring within, manifesting itself in the flow of the written word.
Style, however, can be taught – business style, journalistic style, advertising style, medical style, etc. can all be taught; though, within a particular style, some writers take it to an art form.
One must have the passion to write or be motivated by worldly reasons to learn to write; perfecting one’s writing style and skills requires that one writes and does lots of it.
If you have the passion to write and need help to develop your writing style; or, you have a motivation (such as that job promotion requiring you write) to write, perhaps, these writing tips will help get you started.
Choose a suitable design and hold to it.
Make the paragraph the unit of composition.
Use the active voice.
Put statements in positive form.
Use definite, specific, concrete language.
Omit needless words.
Avoid a succession of loose sentences.
Express coordinate ideas in similar form.
Keep related words together.
In summaries, keep to one tense.
Place the emphatic words of a sentence at the end.
Place yourself in the background.
Write in a way that comes naturally.
Write with nouns and verbs.
Revise and rewrite and rewrite again.
Do not overwrite.
Do not overstate.
Avoid the use of qualifiers.
Use orthodox spelling.
Do not explain too much.
Do not construct awkward adverbs.
Make sure the reader knows who is speaking.
Avoid fancy words.
Be clear.
Use figures of speech sparingly.
Do not take shortcuts at the cost of clarity.
Do you need to consult with a writing professional?
