Comments on: 10 Tips for Improving Your Writing Online

By: Glenna

Glenna — Mon, 17 May 2010 01:53:32 +0000

Alex, I think you’ve given a good outline as a starting point. There’s one thing with which I don’t agree. I think that 100% accuracy should always be one’s goal, whether it be punctuation, spelling, sentence structure… whatever. I’ve been involved in evaluating resumes, and ANY error sticks in the reader’s mind. Having someone else proofread is a great idea, as is the admonition about using the passive voice. Passive voice diminishes the punch of your message. I enjoyed reading your list, as I’m a print designer, writer, editor and proofreader, and I’m about to embark on trying to sell my skills on the internet. I’ll look forward to further information. Thanks and cheers!

By: Sara

Sara — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 13:58:48 +0000

Great article! Sometimes when I am stuck on grammar, I consult Grammar Girl: a lot of times you can search what you’re having problems with and find the correct usage.

http://grammar.quickanddirtytips.com/

By: Nick

Nick — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 13:25:15 +0000

You know it’s weird but a lot of people (I’m guilty of it too) have this notion that the rules you learn in English class don’t apply to writing online. That’s such a strange idea because it’s probably a lot more people that will read what you write online than in an English class.
Anyway, thanks for the tips. Useful as usual.

By: Rebecca Ritchie-Timms

Rebecca Ritchie-Timms — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 23:02:02 +0000

Interesting point James.

I can relate to what you are saying. I like to mix up my sentences and voice to give a sense of my personality.

In regard to the tips that Alex is giving. I am seeing them as suggestions that will sustain an audience. How I execute them is another matter. If I do not understand the fundamentals of the language use I would consult an English teacher.

By: James De Angelis

James De Angelis — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 10:50:35 +0000

Alex – The issue is that what you’re teaching are merely executions with no fundamentals to base them off.

It’s like showing someone how to pole vault without explaining how to run, or even walk.

i.e “Use short sentences” – Why? Are you suggesting that there’s never a reason to use a long sentence? It’s rediculous.

These things are contextual. And to recognise context you’ve got know the basics.

By: Alex Mathers

Alex Mathers — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 14:38:49 +0000

Thanks for the comment James, I’m not suggesting this will turn you into Hemingway overnight, but start small, and you’ll get there. Would you like to elaborate on your comment?

By: James De Angelis

James De Angelis — Sun, 31 Jan 2010 22:29:22 +0000

A seriously shallow look at writing if I ever saw one.

By: Alex Mathers

Alex Mathers — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 22:19:59 +0000

Good to hear it is useful for you Sie, all the best, Alex

By: sie

sie — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 13:11:43 +0000

I am one of the person who get fast in a writers block. therefore your tips are just right for me.

By: Maria Parenteau

Maria Parenteau — Sun, 17 Jan 2010 00:52:18 +0000

You wrote very well about writing. Leading by example. Great article, thanks.