Business writing succeeds when you keep it simple, clear & uniquely yours. But, how do you do that?

Here is a simple business writing solution – think 3-1-3.

Simple Math

If you are like me, you like all things simple. Give me the simple math over calculus any time.

You have a lot of great ideas running through your mind. Or maybe you are the person who has to make sense out of the great ideas of someone else.

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Tips

• Use notes – especially if you are a visual person
• Jot down ideas as they come
• If writing for someone else – have them just talk
• Use a recorder for “sound-bites”
• Use mind-mapping tools, like MindMeister or Mind42
• Use what works best for you

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Now you need some way to pull it all together. When it comes to business writing, use the easy formula, 3-1-3:

3 for the set-up, 1 for the idea, 3 for the wrap-up

Let me show you how it works.

Simple Set-up

Think of any business writing as a story. It makes it easier to construct.

Set up your ideas with 3 questions:

1. What is the problem – challenge – or point of the story?
2. What would you like the ending or outcome to be?
3. How do you get there? What’s your solution?

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Tip:

There is a bit of a twist on the questions for our story.

In order to deliver the best solution, you first need to know the problem and the desired outcome.

When you write the story, you put the problem (1) first, then the solution (3), and then the outcome (2) – the happy ending.

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Next, organize your ideas into one of the 3 categories. Does it address the problem, the outcome or the solution?

Simple Idea

Use one thought or idea per paragraph.

Although I would love to take credit for that idea, it is a common and effective teaching for writing.

You probably have more than one idea under each of the 3 categories. Some may be related to others – ask yourself:

• Are the ideas separate and distinct?
• Is one idea an enhancement or build on another?

In mind-mapping, the analogy of a tree is often used. The trunk is the idea and the branches its enhancements or development.

Simple Wrap-up

Like any good story, your business writing has a beginning, middle and end.

The wrap-up ties together the beginning, middle and end of your story.

As readers, we often get lazy. We scan business writing for salient points.

Your wrap-up delivers the package (the problem), with the contents (your solution), and ties is up with a bow (the outcome).

Remember 3-1-3 for better business writing:

• 3 questions to set up your story
• 1 idea per paragraph
• 3-part wrap-up – Problem – Solution – Outcome

i-Stock Photo Credit: frentusha

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Helping you Keep it simple, clear & uniquely yours – contact me for help with your business writing needs.

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