Some Rules of Good Writing

1. Think first of the reader and address yourself to his interests. Tell him all he wants to know and don't let him guess between the lines.
2. Adopt a tone suited to the occasion and the purpose of the letter.
3. Write naturally, as you would talk, using plain and familiar words.
4. Write clearly and to the point. The dominant need in all business letter-writing is exactness expressed in language that is absolutely clear.
5. Write courteously and make your letter sound friendly and sincere.
6. Avoid wordiness, but at the same time remember that it is more important to be clear and courteous even if it means using more words.
7. Avoid commercial jargon with its roundabout and meaningless forms of expression.
8. Write effectively - by using simple language, by being consistent and precise.
9. Avoid monotony - by introducing variety.
10. Write to a plan if your letter is long or specially important.
11. Pay special attention to the opening and closing paragraphs - first and last impressions leave a special mark on the reader.
12. Check your letters.

Copyright © 1999, 2000, 2001 by Vasudev N. Seeram. All rights reserved.