Writing tip #3: Structure your writing
 
You've analysed your audience, you've worked out your aim, and you've jotted down key words and phrases related to your aim. Now you need to guide your reader and keep them interested. The content of your document needs to unfold in a logical and predictable order. For example:

  • pros followed by cons
  • problem followed by solution
  • by geographic area
  • by topic
  • in chronological order.

View Writing tip #1    l    View writing tip #2

Should I use double or single quotation marks?
 
Quotation marks (also sometimes called inverted commas) can be single (') and double ("). In keeping with the trend to minimal punctuation, single quotation marks is generally the preferred style. Double quotation marks are then used for quotes within quotes. Source: Style manual for authors, editors and printers, 6th edition, 2002. More


 

Fascinating fact

Xmas is a term for Christmas that dates from mid 16th century. It was originally only a written form, with X representing the initial letter of Greek Khristos, 'Christ', in the Greek alphabet.

Source: The origins of words and phrases edited and produced by Oxford University Press and published by Reader's Digest, 2008.

Do you have a question? Email us your question about any aspect of English grammar, or writing, and we’ll give you the answer in a future edition of Wise Words.

How well do you write? For a free assessment, phone 02 9360 3005, or fill in our  online writing appraisal.

 

Please spread the word and email Wise Words to anyone who cares about the English language.

 

If  you would rather not receive the newsletter, simply  unsubscribe now.

 

Get the support you need for your written communications:

First Name *
Last Name *
Email *
Phone  *
Message  *

 
For expert writing and editing call 02 9360 3005