Back to: Writing Skills and Editing Principles
Clear writing is about being able to edit your first draft of a text to make your sentences precise. Here we look at sentence structure, word choice and grammar.
We all aim for clear writing in our texts and documents so that our readers can quickly get the point of our correspondence, reports and briefings. You can also review our editing checklist here
Writing is a key skill that is difficult to master. We work with a range of international organisations, corporate clients and NGOs who all believe that training and development is key to their success. Read our article about learning organisations http://www.communication-director.com/issues/are-you-learning-organisation/#.VTZUJtKqqko
| Aspect | Detail |
| Simple sentence structure | The simplest form of clear sentences is S + V + O. Your sentence can have more than one verb, the main one should come first. |
| Subordinate clauses | Do the first few words (clause) convey the key message that you are trying to get across? Subordinate clauses contain background information – these should come later in the sentence. |
| Lead in with main message | Clear writing is about your main message? Are you asking for something, stating a fact, challenging the readers? |
| Avoid repetition of words and ideas | Does your sentence state the same concept twice? Example: “we discussed and agreed to the new programme.” At a top line we only need to know that you agreed. |
| Use verbs instead of nouns | Almost all nouns can be used as verbs. Try to eliminate overuse of nouns in writing. Example: “they are all in agreement” “They all agree” |
| Use active voice sentences | The active voice (S+v+O) is more direct, action focused and better for a call to action. The passive voice (where we neglect the subject) is often over used and is value and hard to read. Clear writing is active. |
| Cut adverbs and linking words | Do you decorate your sentences with elaborate adverbs? Don’t. Clear writing is built on verbs and nouns. |