Bull's Eye Business Writing Tips

Tip #417:  Openings:  If your reader is familiar with your writing topic, or you are writing something short, you do not need a full introduction.  Simply focus the reader’s attention with a brief opening.  

For example:

You will be happy to know we corrected the error in your bank balance.  The new balance shows……….

To date, the 20 specimens you submitted for analysis have been examined.  Our preliminary analysis indicates……

A helping word to one in trouble is often like a switch on a railroad track…an inch between wreck and smooth, rolling prosperity.”  (Henry Ward Beecher)

Answers to this week's quiz:

The answers are the following because “also” should not be used as a connective in the sense of “and.”  Avoid opening sentences with “also” because it is a weak transitional word suggesting an afterthought rather than planned writing.

1.  B--He brought the reports, letters, and the section supervisor’s recommendations.

2.  B-- He also brought statistical data to support his proposal.