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Discussion on: How to Improve Writing Skills as a Non-Native Speaker

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Tomas Fernandez • Edited

Thanks for posting this. As a non-native English writer, I can relate, a lot.

Here are some writing tips I've collected:

  • There is no replacement for practice. Write every day.

  • No one gets it right on the first draft. Be ready to edit and re-edit and re-edit.

  • Get someone to proofread before publishing. We are blind to our own mistakes too often.

  • Content is not clear unless your readers can (1) Find what they need. (2) Understand what they find. (3) Use what they find to meet their needs.

  • Well written prose has Clarity, Simplicity, Brevity, and Humanity.

  • Collect too much material, give the reader just enough.

  • Ruthlessly reduce your sentences. Edit until you can't eliminate or combine any more words.

  • Know your audience.

  • Don't overexplain.

  • Use the simplest word that maintains your meaning.

  • The first paragraph is crucial to catch your reader's attention. Don't waste it.

  • As soon as you made your point, look for the nearest exit and finish your post/chapter/section.

  • Readers will skim so plan accordingly.