The Truth About the New Rules of Business Writing

Truth 18. Rhythm and transitions make writing move

Base your writing on straightforward, simple sentences. Teachers used to call these “declarative” sentences. For example, “John broke the stick.” “Amanda is going to the overseas conference.” “I want to tell you a story.” “Mr. Macklowe needs the report tomorrow.” “Most immigrants learn to speak English in two years.”

But, you say, if I use only sentences like that, won’t my writing get boring and choppy? Yes. You’ve only to look at a textbook to see something like this:

John Black was a Pilgrim. The Pilgrims suffered from oppression in England. Black emigrated to America in 1654. He bought land in Massachusetts. He built a large house. He was elected town governor in 1666.

How can you avoid ...