THE WRITE WAY

There's something about putting words down in print that puts people on edge. The written word lies there on the page, open to examination, and solid enough to put on file.

And yet it continues to be a critical skill in today's high-tech, rapid-fire communication society. Writing is a skill that can be learned, and it improves with practice. Here are a few tips to make your writing a breeze:

1 -- Content is the key to getting started. Know what you want to say, and say it directly and simply.

2 -- Sequencing your ideas will make transitions from one thought to another easier.

3 -- Use active voice instead of passive voice. For example, active voice: "We sent the notice on May 1." (The subject is clearly taking the action.) Passive voice: "A notice was sent on May 1." (This structure is impersonal and can be confusing.)

4 -- Avoid jargon. Excessive use of big words or overly technical language will distance you from the reader.

5 -- Stick to business protocol, using titles, salutations, and complimentary closings. It's polite and accepted as a professional format.

6 -- Proofread the document, checking spelling, grammar, and punctuation.

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