| Some people say great writing can't be taught, it | | | | to familiarize yourself with the rules. Unless you |
| can only be developed. You may or may not | | | | do, you'll find it hard to grow as a writer, as the |
| have a shot at being a great writer. Regardless, | | | | rules are the playing field in which you can let your |
| the first step to get there is to pull yourself from | | | | creativity shine. |
| the rut of bad writing. | | | | Boldness |
| Clarity | | | | There are two extremes with regards to the |
| Writing well means expressing ideas that make | | | | intent behind your sentences: they're either bold |
| sense to your readers. For that reason, clarity | | | | or timid. Erring on the side of the former is bound |
| should be among your most important goals. You | | | | to let you produce more powerful prose, while |
| must learn to recognize ambivalence, ambiguity or | | | | the latter guarantees mediocrity. If you want to |
| any source of confusion when reviewing your | | | | keep bad writing at bay, give yourself permission |
| work, then have the initiative to actively correct | | | | to be bold. You can always temper it later while |
| them. | | | | editing. |
| Rules | | | | Taking Risks |
| English writing has plenty of rules. There are rules | | | | Lastly, all writers should take risks. While there's |
| for grammar, for spelling, for punctuation, for | | | | value in sticking to what you know, you'll never |
| syntax, for structure, for rhythm and for style. | | | | grow without expanding your comfort zones. |
| Many of them can be sufficiently handled by your | | | | Even if you fail, you can always fight another day. |
| software for English writing. However, it also pays | | | | |