Experiences in
school leave some people with the impression that good writing simply
means writing that contains no bad mistakes-that is, no errors of
grammar, punctuation, or spelling. In fact, good writing is much more than just
correct writing. It's writing that responds to the interests and needs of our
readers.
Briefly, here are
the basic characteristics of good, effective writing:
- Good writing has a clearly defined purpose.
- It makes a clear point.
- It supports that point with specific information.
- The information is clearly connected and arranged.
- The words are appropriate, and the sentences are clear, concise, emphatic, and correct.
Again
and again, you'll find that the guidelines, examples, and exercises throughout
this Grammar and Composition site are based on these fundamental traits.
Good writing is the
result of much practice and hard work. This fact should encourage you: it means
that the ability to write well is not a gift that some people are born with,
not a privilege extended to only a few. If you're willing to work, you can
improve your writing.
As seen in Advice from One Writer to Another, professional writers-the ones who make
writing look easy--will be the first ones to tell you that often it's
not easy at all:
- "There is no rule on how to write. Sometimes it
comes easily and perfectly: sometimes it's like drilling rock and then
blasting it out with charges."
(Ernest Hemingway) - "Writing is just work--there's no secret. If you dictate or use a pen or type or write with your toes--it's still just work." (Sinclair Lewis)
Don't
be discouraged by the thought that writing rarely comes easily to anyone.
Instead, keep in mind that regular practice will make you a better writer. As
you sharpen your skills, you will gain confidence and enjoy writing more
than you did before. As discussed in The Writer Attitude and Your Writing Goals, your attitude toward writing will
improve as you grow more satisfied with your work.
Không có nhận xét nào:
Đăng nhận xét