10 Writing Tips from the Original “Mad Man”
Businessman David Ogilvy’s Internal Memo Titled "How to Write"
Good writing is not a natural gift. You have to learn to write well. Here are 10 hints…
— David Ogilvy
In 1982, David Ogilvy, known as the "Father of Advertising," sent an internal memo to all employees titled “How to Write.” The memo covers:
Why writing is important.
How to write naturally.
How to be concise.
…and more.
For more insights, check out Stephen King's Advice For Writers, 8 Writing Tips From John Steinbeck, and Henry Miller’s 11 Rules of Writing.
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"How to Write"
Good writing is not a natural gift. You have to learn to write well. Here are 10 hints:
Read the Roman-Raphaelson book on writing. Read it three times.
Write the way you talk. Naturally.
Use short words, short sentences, and short paragraphs.
Never use jargon words like reconceptualize, demassification, attitudinally, judgmentally. They are hallmarks of a pretentious ass.
Never write more than two pages on any subject.
Check your quotations.
Never send a letter or a memo on the day you write it. Read it aloud the next morning — and then edit it.
If it is something important, get a colleague to improve it.
Before you send your letter or memo, make sure it is crystal clear what you want the recipient to do.
If you want ACTION, don’t write. Go and tell the guy what you want.
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If you found Ogilvy’s tips useful, you might also enjoy Stephen King's Advice For Writers, 8 Writing Tips From John Steinbeck, and 30 Writing Tips from Jack Kerouac. Each article provides additional insights to sharpen your writing craft.
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