subject: Word Weaving: The Basics and the Necessary Evils [print this page]
One of the oldest rules of writing dictates that fewer words are better for relating the fact only based information which comprises your standard piece. The number and power of your words depends mainly upon these factors:
Purpose: What is your intent? Are you delivering statistics and analytical information? Are you writing about an individual's accomplishments? Introducing a new product or service?
Form: The format is dictated by the purpose. Generally, the more color and characterization you need to use to disseminate your information, the longer the format. The best current example is blog posts designed to evoke action or emotion.
Word Weaver Tip: Read your written material out loud. Not only will this help with hearing the "voice" of the material, it will help catch errors that might escape the eye. Don't be deceived by appearance.
In writing, especially in statistical based material, less (wording) is definitely more. No matter what the subject matter, it is important to be concise.
Be vigilant of 'padding' words such as 'very' and the overused 'that'. Use 'active' verbs (jump or hop instead or 'move around')and put the reins on descriptors.
Use short paragraphs. Nothing makes a printed content more visually undesirable than several long paragraphs. The reader wants quick access to what he/she is looking for and is likely skimming the page to find it. This is also the reason video messages are prevailing as the preferred method of B2C communication. (But that's another article).
Use numbering or bullet points to make the particulars stand out in statistical and instructional data forms such as white papers, manuals and textbooks.
The Psychological Aspect
Okay, go ahead and yawn but I must mention simple grammar and correct spelling. It's becoming a lost art and the pocket-protector geek in me is mourning.:-( Simply surf the web - you will see how prevalent bad spelling truly is. Texts and 'tweets' hasn't helped the situation the grammatical situation.
Did you know copious misspelled words are psychologically distracting? It detracts from your professional image. You begin reading through a message or a letter and every other word seems to be written out phonetically.
Do you find it 'ear-it-tay-ting'? Does it 'in-kur-ige' skimming through or skipping out on 'finshing' the reading? Grammatical errors are usually typographical. Typos are usually the result of either quick keyboarding or it's simple a case of the 'fat-finger'
Word Weaver Tip: A simple way to improve your eye for spelling errors is to do word oriented games like seek and find, crosswords or sudoku. People can cheat at Scrabble - wouldn't trust that one.;-)
Keeping in mind a few of these basic rules of writing will give your material more impact and deliver your information in a clear, discernible voice - your voice. Delivering material to your audience in your voice, helps create a distinction your audience will relate directly back to you. This is the voice of your brand.
Articles help with ranking in search engines by getting your name out THERE where it can reach your audience. It's an excellent way of helping your audience get to know you.
Dellagation helps online service providers develop and disseminate that brand through article market and other methods. You are invited to bring your voice and Dellagation weaves words into moving tapestry of your goals and vision.
