Business writing basics focuses on clear communication. Effective business writing has a clear intent stated in the lead, only discusses one topic per communication, and provides supporting details to clarify the message for the reader. Writers should ensure their key points and thesis would still be understandable if extra details were removed. Facts should be checked and spelling verified without relying solely on spellcheck before finalizing communications.

1. Business Writing Basics

2. Communication:
2
A giving or exchanging of information, signals, or
messages as by talk, gestures, or writing
5
The art of expressing ideas, especially in speech
and writing
Webster’s New World Dictionary, 3rd
ed.

3. Communication:
Communication influences thoughts, feelings, and
actions.
Information merely informs
Use the 80/20 Rule

4. 80%
Communication

5. 20%

6. Clear
Clarify what it is you intend before writing

7. Clear
Clearly state your intent in the lead

8. Clear
One topic per communication

9. Clear
Provide supporting detail

10. Edit!
Less is more, in many cases

11. Strong thesis
If everything else is cut, will your message still be clear?

12. Make points briefly
Don’t get hung on an issue

13. Correct
Check the facts

14. Correct
Do not rely on spell check

15. Correct
Do not rush

16. Correct
Dictionaries and thesauruses are
the writer’s friends