Business Writing 101 for new grads

First, write down whatever in your mind

This is your brainstorm time, enjoy the freedom of writing anything.

Organize the draft into three parts

1. Say what you are going to say: the roadmap

What you are writing about (description)

What their destination is (your purpose)

How you are going to get there (summary points)

2. Say it: The signposted body paragraphs

One idea per paragraph

Every paragraph begins with a strong topic sentence (which gives your reader and yourself a signpost)

Get your most important ideas upfront (or they might not be read at all)

3. Say what you just said: conclusion as a reminder

Revise your document

Content

Ensure every sentence is writing to your purpose

Don’t repeat words

Limit crutch verbs

Tone

Match your tone to your audience

Be the authority

• Don’t sound smart, be smart
• Own your ideas
• Be specific