Understanding the writing process

Many people underestimate the time it takes to write a document. It is helpful to think about writing in six steps:

1. planning the document
2. researching the information
3. analysing the information
4. drafting the document 
5. editing the document for readability
6. proofreading for credibility.

Each of these steps needs time allocated to it. Spending time thinking about the writing task at the font end will save time at the drafting and editing stages. Many people underestimate the time it takes to proofread a document carefully and sentences like the following  regularly occur. Can you pick the  incorrect words?

The principle affect of the new regulations will be too limit the sale of alcohol to miners.

More about the writing process  in the next blogs. 

(correct words are principal, effect, too and minors ( although miners could possibly work in a mining site).  

Write to express not impress

Robert Gunning, the Gunning half of the Gunning-Fox Readability Index said, 'Write to express not to impress'. Unfortunately, many writers still believe that a heavy, pretentious style of writing is more impressive than a simple style. In fact it is generally better to use the simpler word and phrase than the pompous alternative. Do you use whilst or while, utilise or use?  Using simpler words will allow your reader to focus on your message rather than be distracted by the language. You want your readers to be impressed more by the clarity of your argument and style of writing than by pretentious words and heavy phrases. 

Can you find simpler alternatives to these words?

• endeavour
• commence
• demonstrated
• render
• included herewith
• peruse

(Answers: try, start, shown, help, attached, read)