Great Writing Tip Number 1

A list of common, bad writing habits floated into my "inbox" over the weekend. They are mostly things we know or should know. Put the emphasis on "should."

Writing lessons are usually hard won, but mapping out the potholes can help steer around sudden dropoffs.

Ditch bad habits and improve your communications skills.

Advice Numero Uno:

Whenever writing anything (especially on line), do it as some internal file, let the piece sit, and go back to it before posting, mailing, emailing, or turning it in.

• Re-Read, Review, and Edit.
• Go through this process at least twice.
• If editing is attempted too soon after drafting rough copy, most writers see what they remember they wrote rather than what they actually put down.

Do yourself a favor, don't wait until the last minute to do the first draft of an important project. A second pair of eyes scanning your project will save you tons of embarrassment and enhance your professional standing.

• Tip#1 should be tatooed in reverse on your forehead... so you can read it in the mirror when you comb your hair or brush your teeth.

Al Portner's "The Assignment Desk, L.L.C. (TAD)" provides "creatives" staffing for all your company's special projects. TAD offers an extensve stable of experienced pre-vetted writers, photographers, and graphic designers. Visit the TAD website at www.theassignmentdesk.net.

Read Al's columns on Public Policy at: http://bit.ly/PublicPolicyExaminer