Writing tip:

Use active voice for more interesting reading. Academic authors too often believe that passive voice is more detached and therefore more "correct." Of course there are times when passive voice is appropriate, as when the object of an action plays a central role in the events being described.

Writing Services

Writing is more than stringing words together on a page. It requires synthesis of knowledge, command of language, and clarity of thought. Our bodies may pass from this world, but our body of knowledge can live on forever through our words. When the words escape you, I can help to consolidate your thoughts and express them in a manner and tone suited to practically any audience or situation.

Technical Documentation

The definition of "technical writing" varies greatly, depending on the industry and the company. While some view the field as merely an engineering afterthought, others may see it as a critical customer service or marketing support function. In reality, technical writing is at the nexus of many business activities. The technical writer may use a variety of media to make complex technology easily understood.

Scientific Communications

Science and medical writing requires a thorough understanding of scientific theory and practice. In the biotech industry, technical writers often have advanced degrees in molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related discipline. As a result, the technical writer or science editor participates in the peer review process. Projects may include lab protocols, scholarly articles, or multimedia training.

Software Documentation

Technical writing in the computer industry requires someone with knowledge of the development cycle and understanding of software engineering principles. Documentation projects may take many forms, including printed manuals, online help, and multimedia tutorials. The success or failure of an application in the marketplace is often dependent on the quality and quantity of support documents.

Product Instruction Manuals

Instruction manuals are needed for practically every consumer product on the market. A manual may include step-by-step instructions, technical illustrations, troubleshooting tips, and safety precautions. When the product is sold outside of the U.S., local laws and customs may require multiple translations, regulatory statements, and alternative formatting.

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Marketing Communications

Marketing communications may include any written, aural, or visual materials produced to support the marketing efforts of an organization. In science and technology companies, there may be considerable overlap between marketing and technical pieces. Common projects in this realm include print ads, radio scripts, product catalogs, sales fliers, and corporate brochures.

Advertising Copy Writing

Advertising copy is designed to capture the attention of the reader, build his or her interest and desire, then call the reader to action. A strong lead, combined with compelling imagery, will grab the reader and draw him or her into the ad. The closing statements must ask the reader to do something, such as call, write, or visit a web site. A well-written ad can turn a casual observer into a customer.

Promotional Literature

All businesses must promote and sell their products and services. Even non-profit organizations need to inform potential donors of their activities to encourage giving. Printed literature is at the core of most marketing and sales efforts. Whether it is a direct-mail piece, a customer newsletter, a capabilities brochure, or a product catalog, the message must be clearly worded.

Media and Public Relations

Advertising is expensive, but publicity is often free. However, the volume of press releases coming across the wire and reaching an editor's desk is overwhelming. Each statement needs to be carefully constructed for maximum impact. Although not every company can support a dedicated public relations unit, most can afford an outside professional to handle press releases and media kits.

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Creative and General Writing

Creative writing, as opposed to technical or journalistic writing, is an art form that draws on the writer's imagination and literary skills. Although most people think of popular fiction, creative writing includes scriptwriting, poetry, and creative non-fiction. General writing is a catch-all category that includes some creative forms, as well as business and expository writing.

Ghostwriting and Collaboration

When someone has a story to relate, he or she may not have the necessary writing skills to tell that story in a clear, logical manner. A ghostwriter will collect the information and actually write the story, giving authorship to the client. In contrast, a collaborator may assist in writing the story while taking co-authorship. Payment and royalty sharing depends on the nature of the relationship.

General Business Writing

Marketing communications covers a broad range of topics, yet it does not address myriad other writing needs of the organization. Executive speeches, training documents, and policy statements may all require the skills of a seasoned professional. Technology has done much to improve the channels of communication, but we must be careful not to neglect the message for which those channels were built.

Non-Fiction Articles

The majority of consumer periodicals in circulation primarily consist of non-fiction articles. These articles, which usually range from 1,200 to 3,000 words, may be written on practically any topic. While this work most often is performed for commercial publications, a number of other organizations find a need for non-fiction content. Payment and rights granted depend on how the article will be used.

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