Plan Before You Write

Plan before you write. Thinking before writing is usually a strength, and many people find that the best way to start writing (or dictating) is not to write but to plan. The first stage of planning is to think out:

• who is going to read the document;



• what they will be expecting to get from it;



• in what circumstances they will be reading;



• what you’re trying to achieve.

Lists and bubble diagrams, containing all the points you expect to make, help to clarify your own purpose. You could also plan out a core statement which says what you will cover in the main section of the document – normally the discussion section. It helps you to focus on the task and the audience.

Example:

• Keep Sentences Short.
• Use words your readers are likely to understand.
• Use only as many words as you really need.
• Prefer the active voice.
• Use the clearest, liveliest verb to express your thoughts.
• Use Vertical Lists to make complex materil understandable.
• Keep Electronic Text Communication simple.
• Put your points positively when you can.
• Reduce cross-references to the minimum.
• Try to avoid sexist usage.
• Avoidable English Errors are so many.
• Avoid fusty first sentences and formula finishes.
• Put accurate punctuation at the heart of your writing.
• Avoid being enslaved by seven writing myths.
• Plan Before You Write.
• Organize your material in a simple way.
• Consider different ways of setting out your information.
• Devote special effort to producing lucid instructions.
• Use clear layout to present your plain words.