Here is a great article from CopyBlogger on why what you learned back in school about writing might not work so well today, especially if you write for the Web.
1. Trying to sound like dead people
School writing aren’t usually bad, but what kills it is that it’s boring. In fact, students go out of their way to be boring.
2. Expecting someone to hand you a writing prompt
Spending time looking for topics for this blog is one of the most enjoyable and challenging parts of my day. My suggestion? Read more.
3. Writing long paragraphs
Not entirely sure about this one. Long or short, whatever works, works.
4. Avoiding profanity at all costs
5. Leaning on sources
For online writing, you have the unique ability to link to your sources without having to quote them in your article.
6. Staying detached
If you don’t invest your emotions in your writings, why should your readers invest theirs?
7. Listening to “authorities” more than yourself
The only person who is absolutely required to enjoy reading your articles, is you.
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Dude, learn some grammar and punctuation, or at least use grammar-check, before you try to give people tips about WRITING!
Cheri,
I think you are right on the money. I don’t spend nearly as much time on grammar checks as I do on trying to come up with something interesting and express it clearly.
Well, this is my blog, not a school paper.
–Jay
I agree: Interesting trumps proper every time