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When your marketing copy and content include simple typos and errors in grammar, syntax and usage, you look less professional. You cause readers to lose confidence in your abilities, whether you are selling words or widgets. Here are 6 simple rules that can make your writing better right away:

Watch your apostrophes

The most common error is to confuse possessive (needs an apostrophe) with plural (does not need an apostrophe). I see this most often when the writer is referring to a decade. Say “1970s” (plural) if you mean all the years of the decade, not “1970’s (possessive).

Use one space between sentences instead of two

Two spaces went out decades ago. This article explains why (it has to do with desktop publishing vs. typewriting). You don’t really need to know the technological reason. Take my word for it and make the change now. You will look less out of touch.

Dump “very” and “really”

These vague, weak words add nothing, and often detract from your message. Instead of saying “very fast,” say “quick.” In place of “really roomy,” use “spacious.” In other words, be descriptive. The thesaurus is your friend.

Avoid passive voice

Active voice is not only more exciting and interesting, it is also friendlier, briefer and clearer. Which sounds better: “The email was sent by George,” (passive) or “George sent the email,” (active). The one exception to this rule is scientific writing.

Proofread!

Spellcheck, etc., do not catch situations where you use the wrong word, like ”hear” when you meant “here,” or “rein” when you meant “reign.” They often don’t even notice when you leave out a “to” or “the,” or add an extra.

 

Last but not least, this one is a no-brainer:

You can’t have a “first annual” event

It is only “annual” when you are hosting the second or subsequent ones. You may intend for the event to be annual, but things happen.

After you have finished a piece, let it simmer for hours — or overnight if time allows. Then run it through this list. I promise, your message will come through more clearly if you do!

 

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