Writing With Style: The Power of Plain English

Overview

This is a practical intensive workshop in the skills needed for effective written communication. Whatever you are writing, you need to make sure you put your reader first. This workshop shows you how to write the kind of English that communicates effectively with a reader, that is clear and concise. You will learn how to streamline your written work by following some straightforward rules, and how to structure a piece of writing for maximum readability and impact. The workshop is lively, interactive, and stimulating. It includes practical exercises, and a set of notes for you to use after the course.

Course Content

• how to write clear and concise sentences
• why simple is better than complicated
• how to create paragraphs as stepping stones for your ideas
• avoiding weasel words and purple prose that diminish your writing
• finding your voice, and your own style
• how to use the natural structure of English to enhance readability
• using active verbs to create energy on the page
• how to write great openings, and endings
• the power of detail, image and example
• using punctuation to strengthen meaning

Course Outcomes

By the end of this course attendees should be able to:

• use time and effort efficiently when writing and rewriting
• write material that is reader-centred
• edit documents for readability, content, structure and style
• produce written material that communicates effectively with a range of readers

Benefits to your organisation

• reduce time that managers spend editing and rewriting documents produced by their team members
• create a shared understanding of and approach to writing
• project a consistently professional image through written material

Benefits to you

• increased ability to work independently
• increased confidence in writing and editing skills
• increased productivity in all aspects of work that involve writing