Writing Tips for the Information Age: Four Changed Writing Rules

Like it or not, there are certain rules in the English language that can't be ignored if you want to produce a superior piece of writing. Here are a few suggestions for taking your writing to the next level quickly.

Apostrophes

First, the rules have changed as far as using apostrophes to designate plural in many cases. For instance, you used to add an apostrophe to talk about more than one member of a family, such as, "I'm going to see the Smith's." Current usage eliminates the apostrophe, and the plural form would be "Smiths." The same is true for decades, such as: the 1960s or the 50s, as well as when you're talking about common acronyms like CDs or DVDs. No apostrophe is used to designate more than one in either case.

Companies

Another common mistake is to refer to a simple company as "they." For example, it's incorrect to say, "Microsoft announced that they'll be coming out with a new operating system later this year."

A business is a single entity, so it should be referred to in the singular. Therefore, the correct usage would be: "Microsoft announced that it will be coming out with a new operating system later this year."

Internet

Another mistake that's often made, especially given the incredible increase in computer usage around the world, has to do with a common capitalization problem regarding surfing on the Internet. Remember, the proper noun Internet should always be capitalized.

Antiquated Words

When trying to achieve concise, easily understandable English that also maintains the conversational quality that makes it reader friendly, try to avoid using antiquated language. For instance, the word "thusly" may be a perfectly good word, but it's rarely used in conversation nowadays, so seeing it in a piece of writing give that piece a less-than-current feel. There are a number of similar examples of words that simply aren't used much any more. Learn which ones they are and try to avoid their use in your own writing if you want it to feel fresh and interesting to your readers. When in doubt, read your words out loud. You'll know when you stumble speaking the words.

Becoming a good writer takes dedication and knowledge, and the more you know about the rights and wrongs of good writing, the better you'll be able to convey your ideas and concepts in a clear, interesting fashion. The English language is a living thing, and keeping up with changes helps your writing remain vibrant.

Copyright © 2008 Jeanette J. Fisher

We understand the delays, the uncertainties, and the busy-ness that keep you from writing your book or books. That's why we're here to help you with a special three-day retreat.

 

951-775-8780

The Book Race

 

Home
About Us
Contact Us

"Where your talents align with the needs of the world, there lies your vocation."
- Aristotle

YES! I WILL write a book this month! Reserve My Space

More than 60 percent of the profits will go to charity.

The Book Race™ will be held monthly except in December.