I've seen this site and posting their tips on writing for easy reference: (http://www.write-for-business.com/WritingTips.html)
Here are a few useful tips for you. Whether you are writing a personal or business letter, a report, a memo or an e-mail, it's good to keep these guidelines in mind.
Make a plan. Stop and think before you start writing. Make a note of the points you want to make in a logical order.
Use everyday English wherever
possible. Avoid jargon and legalistic words, and explain any technical terms you have to use.
Identify your reader.
The tone that you choose for your correspondence will depend on the relationship you have with your reader: to a subordinate you can give an order, to a superior you can only recommend or request.
Take care which modal verbs you use. Modal verbs such as 'must' and 'will' are suitable for orders; 'should', 'could', and 'may' are suitable for recommendations and requests.
Choose the right style.
Are you going to write formally, informally or with a neutral style? Be consistent with your chosen style throughout the whole document.
The degree of formality may depend on what you are writing:
- informal
- longer report to a colleague and/or for file
- informal / neutral
- Official company document or letter to a customer
- neutral / formal
Don't use fifty words when you could use five. Sentences that are too long are difficult to read.
Use paragraphs.
Make sure you use paragraphs. They give the reader a chance to pause for thought. Try to keep to one main idea to a paragraph.
Check your spelling.
Poor spelling gives a bad impression. Remember that American English uses different spelling to British English. Whichever one you choose - be consistent!
Be polite.
Even if you are complaining, this is important. A polite complaint will get you much further than a rude one.
Use a good layout.
Set out your letter or report properly (address, dates, names, etc).
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