Amazon’s 6 writing tips
We’re all about better business writing. So, we were chuffed to see some of our key principles for writing well also appeared in a list of recommendations that Amazon makes for its staff.
Use short sentences. Aim for fewer than 30 words. If it’s longer, break it into 2 or more smaller sentences. Every sentence should focus on one idea.
Use data, not descriptors. This also makes our writing objective, not subjective. Consider these examples:
Most customers think we’re great.
89% of our customers rated us 4 out of 5 stars.
The second one makes a stronger case, because the data backs the argument. Hard data, which should always be referenced, provides context. Adjectives are imprecise. While we’re talking about data, if you reference an external source, ensure it’s credible.
Weasel words are the worst
Urgh. Weasel words sneak into our writing, detracting from our narrative and adding no value. Common weasels include:
As much as
Due to the fact that
Likely
Moderately
Until such time as
Virtually
Active voice. In the language of grammar, this is structuring our sentences this way: subject / verb / object. The subject is the thing or person performing the action in a sentence. In passive voice, the subject receives the action.
Write this: architects design buildings.
Not this: Buildings are designed by architects.
Sentences in active voice are easier to understand, more effective and usually shorter than those written in passive voice.
So what? Read what we’ve written. Will our audience understand it? Does it provide new information or value? If it doesn’t, then redraft.
Junk the jargon. Using jargon and acronyms doesn’t make us look smart. It risks alienating our audience, which is the opposite of what we’re trying to achieve. Simple English words will always be more effective than vernacular that’s specific to your industry or company.
Let’s talk about how we can help improve your business writing.
