How to Improve your Writing Skills

Question-and-answer flashcards covering key concepts from the lecture notes on improving writing skills, reading for writing, practice routines, crafting a story, writing faster, and headlines.

What are the five basics listed in METHOD 1 for improving writing?

Use active voice; use strong words; cut the chaff (remove unnecessary words or phrases); avoid clichés; avoid generalizations.

What are the three reading practices in METHOD 2: READING FOR WRITING?

Pick up a good book or pen; read magazines, newspapers and everything else; attend the theatre.

What are the five practices in METHOD 3: PRACTICING YOUR SKILLS?

Buy a notebook; write down any ideas that come to you; fill up your notebook and keep going; join a writing workshop; write everyday.

What are the eight steps in METHOD 4: CRAFTING A STORY?

Pick up a topic and lay out a general story; write an outline; keep up some space in your story outline to add some characters; write the first draft; write it again; write it through to the end; read and share your story; write the final draft.

What are the four strategies listed under HOW TO WRITE FASTER – WRITING QUICKLY BY HAND?

Make outlines; use symbols; learn a shorthand writing system; practice.

What are the five steps under WRITING DOCUMENTS FASTER?

Research beforehand; create an outline; minimize distraction; set a timer; write for clarity not quality.

What are the eleven bullets in HOW TO WRITE EFFECTIVE HEADLINES?

Learn the four functions of a headline; avoid using all capital letters; avoid all punctuation; keep it simple and understandable; do not insult your client's intelligence; don’t clown around; don't get fancy; target your exact audience; be precise; use thesaurus; write and rewrite.

What is the closing remark of the notes for Week 3?

End of Lesson 3 for Week 3.