Entries by Oon Yeoh (13)
Introduction
For the longest time, I've been meaning to write a guide for better writing but never got around to doing so until now.
Oon Yeoh
Tip I: Love Writing
If you find writing to be a chore; if you grumble each time your editor gives you an extra assignment; if you'd rather be doing something else other than writing, you should be asking yourself: "What am I doing in this profession?"
Tip II: Love Reading
If you don't love reading, you should also be questioning yourself whether being a writer is the right profession for you.
Tip III: Find Role Models
It’s said that imitation is the sincerest of flattery.
Tip IV: Be a Specialist
You won't go very far as a generalist.
Tip V: Be Versatile
Being a specialist doesn't mean being rigid.
Tip VI: Be Your Own Harshest Critic
Good writers are rarely satisfied.
Tip VII: Be a Stickler for Accuracy
Of course, everyone makes mistakes, no one is perfect, but writers must take great care to get their facts right.
Tip VIII: Be Smart with Numbers
Dealing with numbers is always a tricky thing.
Tip IX: Write Tightly
When you write your article, remember to write tightly.
Tip X: Add Color
I always remind non-fiction writers that even though we write about real world people and events, ultimately, we are still storytellers.
Tip XI: Write the Way You Speak
When you compose your feature, write as if you were speaking to someone.
Tip XII: Assume They Don't Know & Don't Care
There are two assumptions I always make before I attempt to write an, whether it's a straight news piece, a feature story or a commentary.