Tips, tips, tips.
Blog posts containing tips are a dime a dozen, but every now and then you come across some real gold—tips offered by someone who actually knows what they’re talking about. This is one such occasion.
Yesterday I had the privilege of attending a short seminar on writing and editing. One of the sessions was from Greg Bailey, Director of Publications for Reformation Trust Publishing (yes, a real-life editor). During His session he offered the following 10 writing tips.
- Know what you’re trying to say.
- Never assume your audience knows what you’re trying to say.
- Find a creative way to approach / introduce what you’re trying to say.
- Write an initial draft quickly.
- Be a great revisor.
- Get rid of unnecessary words.
- Maintain an active voice.
- Use simple sentences. “Simple sentences are beautiful.”
- Let it rest. “Sleep on it.”
- Let it go. “Let it do its job, for good or bad.”
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Excellent! Thanks for sharing! It seems being clear and concise is the key to effective and efficient blogging.
#9: Let It Rest is an excellent tip. I often find that my post sounds excellent right after I write it, then I’ll go back the next day & come to conclusion, “What was I thinking with that paragraph? It makes no sense!”
It would be good to let others read it before you post it if possible, to make sure it sounds simple to THEM.
These are great!
Thanks for sharing these useful tips on writing.
Having worked with Greg on two RefTrust books, he’s simply the best in the biz.
Very useful thanks for the post.