by Author Name Withheld 126

Created on: November 24, 2009   Last Updated: August 12, 2010

The key to understanding ratings is realizing that writing is a method of communication. Most people view writing as if it were a test being reviewed by an objective judge. The truth is that there are no concrete universal standards to follow as a writer, but this is why the leapfrog system exists on helium. Writing an article, like holding a conversation, requires a writer to adapt and learn through interaction.

Writing an article well has more to do with connecting to the target audience than arbitrary word usage and syntax. Some people may argue that writing is personal and that it does not need context. That is true of expression, but non-creative writing is meant for communication. In the case of expression, the reader wants to relate to a topic through the context developed by the writer.

On the other hand, context for readers seeking information is developed by their questions and understanding. It is the job of the writer to understand this context and address these questions through intuition. Some writers can naturally anticipate the expectations of the reader, but it is easy to miss the mark. For this reason, it is often good to view other articles in the topic. Ideally, this should have been done prior to even writing the article.

Imagine trying to talk with someone in person for the first time. It is nice to know something about them in advance. Introductions help get everyone comfortable and up to speed. If this didn't take place before writing, the rating and leapfrog process is how it must occur. A writer should not view negative response as criticism or failure. Rather, this is part of a healthy discussion and a step in a positive direction. As in daily life, moving forward is about adapting, stepping back out of solitude, and rising above rejection.

Often, rejection can come from misjudging an audience. Just because an article is about science or finance does not mean that the audience consists of professionals. In some cases, using what seems to be a higher standard can push away an audience. There are many groups who view formality as elitist or improper for a given context. At the same time, writing informally can remove credibility or come across as talking down to the audience. The first submission of an article is only the beginning of a conversation. It responds to the reader, but it is then time to listen in return and adjust to that response.

With an understanding of why writing must be treated as an open dialog, it is important to

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