| Organize and Format for Readability. |
- Thought has to go into the writing process: state the purpose
first then the argument follows.
- Write shorter paragraphs (5 to 7 sentences / 60 to 100 words).
Tie ideas together with transitions.
- Format for readability using headlines, sidelines, bullets,
numbered lists, charts, etc.
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| Use Active Voice and Active Verbs. |
- Prefer the active voice. Limit passive voice.
Passive: The complaint was filed. The complaint was filed
by the union.
Active: The union filed the complaint.
- Put action in your verbs.
Weak: The defendant was in the parking lot.
Better: The defendant stood (or sat, waited, walked)
in the parking lot.
- Use verb forms instead of noun forms.
Weak: We are in receipt of your contract.
Better: We received your contract.
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| Write Correct and Fluent Sentences. |
- Write sentences correctly-no run-ons or sentence fragments.
- Streamline by cutting out all unnecessary words.
Weak: He was aware of the fact that....
Better: He knew....
- Strive for an average sentence length of between 15 to 20
words a sentence. Anything more than 20 puts you in the danger
zone for readability.
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| Consider Your Word Choice. |
- Prefer specific, concrete nouns.
Weak: The vehicle struck the plaintiff Tuesday evening.
Better: Murphy's Pizza van struck the plaintiff Tuesday
at 7:00 p.m.
- Use words familiar to your reader.
Weak: eschew obfuscation
Better: avoid confusion
- Choose words appropriate to your audience and specific to
your purpose. Legalese and technical business terms do not communicate
information in plain English.
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