by Bridget Webber

Created on: April 30, 2009   Last Updated: February 27, 2011

Effective writers are somewhat like spiders. They grab their readers attention, sweep them into a web of interest that holds them tightly, and captivate them, before gently releasing them with a final dusting of magic that is carried with the reader long after words have faded from view.

It has been said that a really good writer has the ability to write about the dullest of subjects and make them shine. This ability is something which separates many would be writers from professionals who are able, not only to make a living, but to inspire and motivate others.

The need for journalists to captivate an audience is pronounced because there is no time to gently lull readers into a state of sobriety before launching into a full on attack of mastery. Time is generally of the essence, and information has to be delivered both concisely and precisely. Lets take a wander down the road to effective writing to see how this can be achieved.

Know what you want to say;

Effective writers have a game plan. They know exactly what they want to say and think about exactly how they are going to say it. Having a clear objective from the very beginning is a way of honing skills and focusing attention. Without a definite goal, writers are prone to wander off course. As they dilly and dally they lose the attention of their audience along the way.

Use your writers voice;

When we speak out loud we use body language and tonality as a way of emphasising points and to further convey our message. Our mannerisms and quality of voice become part of what makes us unique as individuals. The most effective writers manage to convey their personality through the written tone of their words.

It is one thing to know what you want to say, but another entirely to deliver information you wish to impart in an engaging manner instantly recognisable as coming from you, rather than just any writer who feeds others with information.

Research;

The body of a piece of good writing should contain a filling, ripe and bursting with interest. Even terribly well informed writers who have an extensive knowledge base safely locked into their memory, need to research their subject to make sure they have information at their fingertips which is more than adequate, and more then sufficient.

Make Notes;

To be an effective writer an individual needs to be observant of life and their surroundings. The way a person being observed twists and wrings their hands with anxiety today, may become interesting fodder for inspiration

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