There is no order to my list. They are “off-the-cuff,” jotted down as they popped into my head. They read as follows:
- Don’t be a slave to style and grammar. Writing correctly is not the same as writing well. A sentence can be perfectly grammatical yet fail to communicate its message. Some sentences are ungrammatical yet communicate their meaning immediately and clearly. However…
2. Spell correctly and use proper grammar. If you choose not to, always have a reason. That reason should always be about clearly communicating your meaning.
3. Don’t fall in love with language. Writing isn’t about words, it is about communicating. Words are just the tool.
4. Break up your long paragraphs. Few things are as discouraging to readers as an unbroken field of sentences. Better still, brutally look at what you’ve written and ask if it is really necessary. The answer is usually no.
5. Get to the point. Immediately. Don’t write long paragraphs to set things up (referred to as exposition or back story). If that material is truly necessary, you can toss it in later. (However, see rule #4 and #9).
6. Read everything you write out loud. If you can’t read it out loud easily and fluidly, something is wrong with it. Rewrite it or drop it. Whatever you write should read as if a human being would say it. (Additionally, read aloud material that is not your own. It will help convey to you how things should read and sound – or the opposite.)
7. Listen. Everyone has their own way of speaking. They use particular words, phrasing, and syntax. By listening, you’ll find new ways of constructing sentences and hear how language can communicate character (among other things). You will also notice that people rarely use long, clause-filled sentences.
8. Edit. Rewrite. Edit. Rewrite. Edit. Rewrite. Repeat until doctors start suggesting medication.
9. Junk your favourite writing. It is usually your worst. It’s sad but true. On the other hand, it’s a great way to flag material that should be dropped. If you love it, that’s a sign something is probably wrong.
10. Getting paid beats compliments. Every time.
11. Use metaphors and similes cautiously – or even not at all. They are writing bling. (Ha! A metaphor!) While they can provide décor, their main purpose is to clarify and convey meaning. When used properly, they communicate immediately and facilitate understanding.
12. Know the voice behind your writing. Who is doing the writing? See Writing is Acting.
13. Never follow rules slavishly. Writing rules are never rules. They are guidelines.