by Nora Spero

Created on: May 06, 2009   Last Updated: May 08, 2009

GET YOUR READER'S ATTENTION RIGHT HERE. In the first line. Then give them the highlights of your information at a glance.

Summarize your points with bullets or numbers. Let readers quickly see what you have to say and decide if they want to read further. Emphasize the importance of your topics here, then develop them in paragraphs below. This way, readers who don't have the time to dig through a warm and fuzzy reading experience can get your ideas in a glimpse.

Once your reader has determined that your article merits his or her time and attention, they will be willing to read for further clarification. Your introductory presentation has let them decide if they are interested in your topic.

The time-challenged reader will also appreciate most of the following characteristics:

Use concise wording, not flowery language.

Nothing is worse than having to read a pile of manuscripts that begin with off-topic cuteness, long, often-misused wording and explanations of what the writer is going to try to say. Just say it.

Employ easy-to read type style and font size.

Here is a big point: tired eyes don't want to have to work at reading pages that are printed in small or fancy lettering. Also, be sure your copy is clean, that your printer has enough ink and the platen is clean so there is nothing to detract from your words.

Use short paragraphs and sentences and get right to the action the meat of your ideas.

Especially in the first few paragraphs, the idea of "warming up" your audience is a bad idea. You will lose readers before you have a chance to give them your ideas.

Don't focus on you the writer, but on what you have to say.

This can be difficult because we all want to tell the world about ourselves, how we came to write this, or our experience; but leave this, (if you must include at all!) until the end. Instead, focus on your main points, then re-read and ruthlessly cut the fat out.

Break up the page with spacing to make it easier to read and absorb your info.

Readers who may be pressed for time will appreciate the ability to scan vertically and absorb your information quickly, rather than having to plow through big blocks of print.

Check and recheck your grammar and spelling.

Nothing detracts from writing like misspelled words or improper use and punctuation. Today there is really no excuse for errors with all the proofing programs our computers offer. But these checking devices aren't infallible, and sometimes they can't correct things like a misused "your" when you really meant "you're" - so re-read your content.

Today most everyone is in a hurry, so being able to capture the reader's interest quickly and inform them succinctly, will get your articles read and remembered.

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