Want to Be a Good Writer?
Everyone wants the most bang for their buck, but sometimes less is more. This is especially true when it comes to writing.
If you want to be a good writer, the most important thing to remember is to get to the point. There is no need to drivel on for 1,000 words when the point can be made in 500 or less. Likewise, never use a ten-dollar word, when a two-dollar word will do. Save your cash because it doesn’t make you look more intelligent, and in many cases it will appear as if you are trying too hard.
This is especially true if you are just rambling on and on and you don’t have anything of substance to say.
Of course, there are other rules to follow- use proper grammar, use active voice not passive voice (the dog bit the boy is better than the boy was bitten by the dog), and watch out for the run on sentences.
But ability to be clear and concise is the main thing that separates good writers from bad ones.
Which example would you prefer to read?
1) I like going places with Mr. Smith. The other day we went somewhere fun. We had such a good time going out. We went to the beach and Mr. Smith did something awesome. He found $50 and turned it in. He did not keep the $50 that he found. He is quite the magnanimous gentleman.
2) Mr. Smith and I had a good time at the beach. While we were there, he found $50 and turned it in. I thought that was very noble of him.
What is the lesson for the day? Keep it simple! Even if you are not good with style and syntax, just get the point and you will do well.
