Writing A-Z: D is for Details and Decisions
Writers may think writing is a singular act: pick up pen and press to paper or open laptop and start typing. Truth be told, it really is that easy! It’s not, though, necessarily that simple!
Every time we sit down to write, we have dozens of decisions to make:
· What voice will we speak in?
· Will we be the protagonist, or will someone else?
· How much do I want to reveal (details) about the situation?
· How much context should I provide (again, details)?
· Setting? Season? Time?
· Who/will there be others involved in the story?
Even if we’re writing an information piece, these decisions can “make or break” our article or book! Too much detail can be boring and turn off the reader! Too few details, can leave the reader confused, or even potentially doubting our expertise.
So how do we figure this all out? Make an outline or at least have a list of bullet points to help you stay on track. Either/both of these will help you stay focused, guide you as you write, and ensure you’re on topic.
My rule of thumb, though, is always, “just write.” Don’t try to edit yourself as you write. Capture your idea or intent, free write or “brain dump” and then go back and edit. It’s easier to take out unnecessary words, that it is to add them in!
It’s also vital to keep in mind your target audience! The details we include will depend on the demographic of our audience. This is perhaps the most important element to consider. In a business setting, our language will be more “industry-specific” vs “warm and fuzzy.” If we’re writing for women, we might use a somewhat “softer” tone. For a largely male audience, it might be better to use a fact-based approach. None of these are cut and dried or true 100% of the time! I mention these dynamics to start the juices flowing and offer suggestions on our language, approach, tone, etc.
To “eavesdrop” on a discussion about this topic I had with a group of writers on the Clubhouse app recently, tune in for the great conversation!
You can find Mary in “all the places” at marymoss.info/contact
