Welcome to issue No. 070 of the Lever

Good writing leads to good thinking.

And a little revision leads back to great (well, at least better) writing.

When you write, write. Don't edit, correct, or second guess. But when you are done its time to revise, using the ABC's of writing as a guide.

Nothing should go to press without a second run through to ensure that the 3 criteria are met.

Accuracy

Facts. Get them right.

Misreporting factual evidence destroys your credibility and there is no excuse for it in today's information rich environment.

Unfortunately, it is sometimes this very environment that leads to the wrong facts in the first place. Information on the internet is not always as accurate as it seems. Secondary verification is often needed. Link to actual studies, proper footnotes and bibliography will help ensure the accuracy of facts you present.

Also important is that you are accurately stating your intended position. Clarify your thoughts prior to putting them on paper. Plan your argument through to the end so it is built on a firm foundation.

Brevity

Defined as the concise and exact use of words. Or as stated by William Shakespeare in Hamlet:

Use the right words to convey your message. Not too many though. If the sentence works without the word, cut it out. Words like that, rather, and just.

And drop those adverbs.

Rule No. 17 from The Elements of Style applies here:

Clarity

It is important to present your points simply and clearly, to avoid any confusion or miscommunication.

There are a few points to remember that will help to keep your message clear:

• Keep sentences short
• Make one point per sentence
• Use simple, everyday language
• Break down complicated points so they can be presented simply
• Avoid acronyms and abbreviations, unless already clearly defined

Remember, an unclear point is the same as a point that has not been made at all.

Writing is Revision

The act of writing isn't completed when the final word is down on paper, or burned into your screen as the case may be. It is completed when you ship. When you post it, submit it, or drop it in the mailbox.

The middle step of revision is what separates good writing from great.