Business Writing Tip Sheet: Dec. '07

Pump up writing: get active

Write in the active tense to enliven your text.

Passive

The transformation of the marketing department is the result of Carla's innovative ideas.

Active

Carla's innovative ideas transformed the marketing department.

Start paragraphs with topic sentences

Establish context for the rest of the paragraph and let readers know where you're going by starting with a topic sentence. In the examples below, each sentence would be followed by further discussion of the topic.

First, I'm delighted that you've developed a new system for tracking leads.

Second, we need to step up training for the new sales reps.

Third, the entire division needs to focus more on the customers' needs.

Buzz buster: take-aways

Buzz

Please follow up on the take-aways discussed at this morning's meeting.

Straightforward

Please follow up on the next steps discussed at this morning's meeting.

Grammar tip: composed vs. comprised

Two writers, three graphic artists, and one Web designer composed the creative team.

The firm's Boston complex comprises four office buildings, a conference center, and a warehouse.

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