Basics of Professional Writing
This course will introduce (or review) writing techniques to reach the audience and
engage the reader; assess reading level of the written materials (fog index); review rules of grammar, emphasize
importance of spelling, and proofreading.
Objectives
- Write with a purpose to engage the reader (cause reader to act)
- Organize writing to communicate with the reader (prewriting, starting the writing process, paragraph transition)
- Select language that conveys an idea (understand sentence structure; use of active/passive terms)
- Identify 3-4 easily accessible references
- Practice writing in a selected format (business, general public information, key audience, program event, promotional) and receive feedback
Key Concepts
- Keep sentences short.
- Choose the simple over the complex.
- Develop your vocabulary.
- Avoid unneeded words.
- Put action into your verbs.
- Use terms your reader can picture.
- Tie in with your reader's experience.
- Write the way you talk.
- Make full use of variety.
- Write to express, not to impress.
- Revise and rewrite.
- Always use spell check and ask someone else to proof
- Identify a couple of ready resources that are accessible when you write
Offering Format: On-line, independent study
Fee: $45
Offering level (Basic, Intermediate, or Advanced): Basic
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