My six rules for writing well

My rules for writing well. ✒️

I think about these every time I write for an audience.

USE SMALL WORDS. Using small words compels you to think about what you are writing. Even difficult ideas can be broken down into small words.

USE SHORT SENTENCES. Keep sentences short and get to the point. Readers might be interested in what you have to say, but don’t have much time to read.

MAKE CLEAR STATEMENTS. Every sentence should be a clear statement. If a sentence is incomplete or could easily be misunderstood, rewrite it.

BUILD CLEAR STORIES. A good paragraph is a series of clear, linked statements. Make sure every sentence adds to the statement that went before.

DON'T USE JARGON. Jargon makes writing less accessible. Technical terms should be used in their proper context; do not use them out of it.

DON'T USE DECORATION. Don't use decorative and flowery language. Focus on using only the words you need to communicate an idea clearly.

Did I miss anything?