Many of us are gifted with the ability to write. But, why do people seem uninterested with our masterpieces?  Most, especially the neophytes to the writing game, start getting ideas into the keyboard or paper without the audience in mind; what will they say, will they be interested, whether or not we can convey the information we wanted to share.  

There is no single rule to follow in writing. The following are the simple steps I have myself. I provided the examples to make things clear.

1.       Use simple words. Most new writers may believe that using a complex set of vocabulary will please the readers. This is not always the case. Ordinary people will most likely shy away from articles they think aren’t exactly in their level of understanding.  The best way is to know your target audience first. This will help decide what kind of words may work with your stuff. It is only when the idea demands the use of a specific vocabulary that it allows no simpler word substitute.

Complicated: She will ascertain the ways to work with a financial giant after graduation.

Simple: She wants to find out the ways to work with ARN Credit after graduation.

2.       Make your action words speak out. In writing the content, be sure to make your meaning clear. This is done by using verbs that tell exactly what you want to say. The clearer your action words, the more likely it will be easily understood.

Vague: The manager contacts the customer.

Clear: The manager calls the customer.

3.       Communicate meaning with colorful descriptions.  When writing, make the lines more interesting by giving colorful descriptions.  Adjectives, when properly used, give your writing more life. It will help give the reader an insight of what exactly you want them to imagine.

Common: Her cousin offered a trip to an island.

Better: Her cousin offered a trip to an isolated island in the south.

4.       Avoid confusion with familiar expressions.  Using old expressions, colloquial, jargon, clichés or slang could confuse your reader. Not everyone will be able to understand the meaning you wanted to tell as they may be from different areas, using different expressions to convey similar meanings. The safest way to get around is to use the standard language.

Confusing: I can handle responsibilities in frequency transmission within the company premises.

Clear: I can handle inter-office communications.

Confusing: The tasks in my previous company were easier said than done.

Clear: The tasks in my previous company involved technical skills that are difficult to explain verbally.

5.       Tell your point straight. Avoid the “beating round the bush” style, redundancy or unnecessary introductions. When writing, tell your point straight. This will help your readers get the ideas fast. Be brief but clear. Don’t play with words just because you wanted your material to be longer.  Lengthy compositions without much weight will discourage or bore your audience.

Redundant: It is absolutely essential that the employees be informed of the new rules.

Straight: It is important that the employees be informed of the new rules.

Old Style: I trust that it is the responsibility of the teacher to discipline the student inside the classroom.

Newer: I believe that it is the teacher’s responsibility to give classroom discipline.

6.       Read much. One of my journalism professors once said that “A good writer is the best reader”.  Having the ideas of how successful authors write will help you discover your style. Personally, I like to read books to keep me updated with the writing trends.

Hope this helps, and enjoy writing!