Chapter 6

1. Chapter 6 Writing with a Readable Style Strategies for Technical Communication in the Workplace Laura J. Gurak John M. Lannon

2. Writing Style Your writing style involves: • the way you construct each sentence. • the length of your sentences. • the way in which you connect sentences. • the words and phrases you choose. • the tone you convey.

3. Writing Clearly To write clearly, you should: • avoid ambiguous pronoun references. • avoid ambiguous modifiers. • use active voice whenever possible. • use passive voice selectively. • avoid nominalizations. • unstack modifying nouns. • avoid unnecessary jargon.

4. Writing Concisely To write concisely, you should: • avoid wordiness. • eliminate redundancy and repetition.

5. Writing Fluently Writing fluently involves: • Combining related ideas • Varying sentence construction and length • Using parallel structure

6. Write Personably To write personably, adjust your tone by doing the following: • determine if you want a formal, semiformal, or informal tone • remain consistent. • address readers directly. • use “I” or “We” when appropriate. • prefer the active voice. • emphasize the positive.

7. Write Personably Writing personably means avoiding sexist and biased language: • Use gender-neutral expressions. • Don’t mention gender if it is not relevant. • Avoid sexist pronouns. • Drop condescending diminutive endings. • Use “Ms.” • Be specific when referring to a person’s cultural/national identity. • Avoid potentially judgmental expressions. • Never use demeaning expressions. • Use person-first language for people with disabilities or medical conditions. • Use age-appropriate designations.

8. Other Tips to Consider • Remember the cultural context. • Remember legal and ethical implications of word choice. You are accountable for what you say and write. • Use automated editing tools, but DON’T DEPEND UPON THEM ENTIRELY! Know your grammar and spelling.

9. Any Questions? For additional help reviewing this chapter, please visit the Companion Website for your text at http://www.pearsonhighered.com/gurak.