Abstract language continues to creep into corporate writing. Vague, imprecise language paints a fuzzy picture. You can paint a crystal-clear picture by asking yourself the old standby questions: Who? What? When? Where? Why? How?
Fuzzy: The supervisor of one of our units possesses the proper skills to navigate an aerospace vehicle.
Clear: Our contracts manager can fly planes.
Notice how the second sentence gets right to the meat of the issue, letting you know who can do what. Also, remember the KIS principle: Keep it simple.
Get The Manager's Pocket Guide to Effective Writing now with the O’Reilly learning platform.
O’Reilly members experience books, live events, courses curated by job role, and more from O’Reilly and nearly 200 top publishers.
