Better writing
I wouldn't say I'm a bad writer.
But I know I can get better.
Here's one way I'm doing that:
There's a guy I admire on Twitter. His name is Jim Clair. He writes about reading and great writing. He also obliterates fake online gurus (it's fun if you're allergic to fake gurus).
Jim recommended a book by Bryan Garner called Better Business Writing.
If you want to improve your writing, read it.
Garner introduces a method for better writing called MACJ. That stands for Madman-Architect-Carpenter-Judge.
- The Madman gathers material and generates ideas
- The Architect organises information by drawing up an outline, however simple
- The Carpenter puts your thoughts into words, laying out sentences and paragraphs by following the architects plan
- The Judge is your quality control character, polishing the expression throughout -- everything from tightening language to correcting grammar and punctuation. Garner recommends to follow this exact order.
And to do each task separately. So don't write and edit simultaneously. Let the carpenter lay down the words as fast as possible. Then invite the judge to polish the turd.
This process alone will supercharge your writing.
Have a try and see for yourself.