Art of effective writing

For success in most professions, writing is an essential

skill. This may not be indispensable for those who are
confined to manual work. But even technicians who have to
work only on machines may have to prepare reports for
submission to their supervisors. Although their main work
is not focused on writing skills, impressions are created by
the quality of their reports that may in the long run affect
their career graph. As one goes up the professional ladder,
supervisory and managerial components expand in most
cases. Skills in spoken as well as written communication
will prove to be decisive for success at these levels.

Developing skills
Proficiency in any language cannot be developed
overnight. There has to be persistent effort stretching over
many years. Some would tell that a voracious reader would
naturally become a master of the language. This is partly
true. If you read the works of great masters of the language
for several years, you will automatically develop not only
fine comprehension but an appreciation of excellence in
language. But this will be true only if u r a careful reader,
applying your mind to the finer aspects of language as well.

Jeffrey A Carver, science fiction author, once advised

aspirants, “Practice, practice, practice writing. Writing is
a craft that requires both talent and skills. You learn by
doing, by making mistakes and then seeing where you went
wrong”. But the time spent in developing writing skills is
no waste. Miguel de Cervantes, author of Don Quixote told
that “The pen is the tongue of the mind.”

Distinct feature
Underlining, bold letters, capitals, italics, colours,
highlights, sub titles, layout etc makes our document more
attractive. Long pieces may be followed by a summary. It is
true that each subject such as mathematics, chemistry, and
engineering has its own ‘technical English.’ But the crucial
factor in handling these is the skill in basic English. In
addition you will have to master the special terms, idiom,
and forms of expressions that are common in the
disciplines concerned.

Whenever you write, you should have in your mind

the aim of writing, back ground of readers, and best
structure to convey the information. The first draft may not
be the best draft even if you are an expert. You should have
patience to correct, revise, edit, and improve your draft.
This will enhance the effectiveness in communication and
make things easier for the reader.

“Writing is an exploration. You start from nothing

and learn as you go.”

Suggestions invited
Anoop av.
anoop_vgr@yahoo.com