A common theme in this technical writing blog is the need for writers to distinguish between spoken English and written English. Because the two forms follow different conventions, technical writers who write like they speak often produce less effective writing.
A good example involves the word also. Often in speaking we will begin with a transitional word or phrase to connect ideas together for our audience. We can and often do provide similar transitions in our writing. However, also provides a weak transition, suggesting an afterthought rather than an intentional idea.
Consider the example sentence in the cropped graphic above. The role played by corrosion in the material failure does not appear to be secondary or an afterthought. It played an important role in the chain of events leading to final fracture. Therefore, the more effective technical writer will rewrite this sentence. Here is one option:
A good example involves the word also. Often in speaking we will begin with a transitional word or phrase to connect ideas together for our audience. We can and often do provide similar transitions in our writing. However, also provides a weak transition, suggesting an afterthought rather than an intentional idea.
Consider the example sentence in the cropped graphic above. The role played by corrosion in the material failure does not appear to be secondary or an afterthought. It played an important role in the chain of events leading to final fracture. Therefore, the more effective technical writer will rewrite this sentence. Here is one option:
In addition, the corrosive environment weakened the material, accelerating the time to failure.
Beginning the sentence with a stronger transition is not the only option. The writer could also change the position of also.
The corrosive environment also weakened the material, accelerating the time to failure.
By placing also after the subject of the sentence, the adverb now no longer communicates an afterthought but rather an additional, important thought. Compare each of these alternatives against the original example in the cropped graphic above. The impression created by the original is much weaker than either of the alternatives presented here.
Don’t settle for less effective writing by introducing sentences with weaker transitions. Also, don’t begin with also. Present your message coherently, clearly, and concisely. That makes for more effective writing. And more effective writing makes for more effective presentations of both you and your brands.
Don’t settle for less effective writing by introducing sentences with weaker transitions. Also, don’t begin with also. Present your message coherently, clearly, and concisely. That makes for more effective writing. And more effective writing makes for more effective presentations of both you and your brands.
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