The Reader Is the Reason For the Writing

 

            Bad writing is self-centered. It puts everything into the expression of the idea, and nothing into making sure the idea gets across.

 

            But the purpose of a piece of writing is the reader's understanding, not the writer's gratification. Meeting the reader's needs should take center stage no matter what form of writing you undertake: a report, a memo, a short story, a news story, a letter, a proposal, instructions, an ad, or whatever.

 

            Here are some questions you should ponder before you write:

 

            Who is my reader?

 

            What do I need to tell my reader?

 

            What does my reader already know about this subject?

 

            How will my reader probably respond: bored silly? Intrigued? Receptive? Hostile?

 

            What is likely to go wrong and how can I avoid it? (confusion and boredom stem from writing that is too long, too complex, unclear or irrelevant)

 

            What do I want to accomplish with this message?

 

            How do I want my reader to respond?

 

By Susan Darst Williams • www.GoBigEd.com • Grammar Granny 011 • © 2006