• Create an outline before writing the content. Lay out how you want to present your message.
• Spend 80-90% of your time on creating a powerful headline and sub-headline. (Prior to writing the body content)
• Create a first draft without worrying about spelling, grammar, and format.
• First and last paragraphs are the most important. Rewrite these as many times as it takes to be very powerful. A good technique for the last paragraph is to create a brief summary.
• Use only a single idea for each sentence. Most writers have multiple ideas in a sentence. Keep it simple. (The exception is the headline where you can use up to 3 related ideas.)
• Use shorter words rather than larger. Seven letters or less is optimum.
• Create short sentences with 17 words or fewer.
• Eliminate words that are not necessary. Make sure your message is complete but condensed.
• Make statements that can be proven and backed up with facts.
• Use testimonials if possible. Quoting other professionals or experts endorses your position.
• Take time-off between rewrites/editing. Stepping away for a while provides a fresh look.  

 

Source: Gary Sorrell, Sorrell Associates, LLC. Copyright protected. All rights reserved.