Most of my clients are embarrassed about their first drafts. When they send them to me, they often include a comment. The comments go something like this: * “It’s very rough.” * “Excuse the bad grammar.” * “I apologize for the quality of the writing.” * “I hope you can do something with this.” Ernest » Read More
Category: Better Writing
Better Writing: Three Dimensions of Writing Improvement
Terry and I have worked together for several years. Recently, he gave me the best piece of writing that he’s ever done, and I complemented him on it. “Okay,” he responded, “what can I do to get better?” Terry works very hard at getting better at everything. He’s improved his writing a » Read More
Better Writing: When in Doubt
It’s not quite writer’s block, but it’s close. You’ve been working on a blog post or something longer for a while. You know it’s okay, but you feel like it could be better. When that happens, try one of these eight things. Let It Rest The best way to see your own writing with fresh eyes is to » Read More
The Writing Edge for Business Writers: 8/23/19
You’re a businessperson. You may not think of yourself as a writer, but you know that writing well can boost your results and your career. Naturally, you want to do better. Even though writing and storytelling and blogging and SEO aren’t your day job, you want to do them better. You need to get the most value you » Read More
From the Mailbag: Do you use a writer’s notebook?
John writes with a question I’ve heard before. The short version is, “Do you use a writer’s notebook?” The questions behind the question are, “Should I have a writer’s notebook? How should I use it?” The romance around the writer’s notebook goes back to poets such as Dylan Thomas. Thomas mined his notebooks » Read More