Every Careless Word

You’re judged by your spelling, punctuation, and grammar.

 In their Facebook posts one week, several authors took issue with people they called grammar-shamers. They wanted to be judged by their online substance, not their delivery.

 They’re missing the point.

 If an error — of any kind — distracts a reader from your message, then you’ve failed to communicate clearly. Authors are judged … Continue reading

5 Ws for Social Media

Remember to give readers essential orientation.

If you post on social media but never studied journalism, you might benefit from this essential of good reporting: the Five Ws.

Even those who skim your post will get the big idea if you immediately give these five key facts:

  • Who
  • What
  • Where
  • When
  • Why

Provide all five, and people won’t miss the gist of what you want … Continue reading