Writing Resolutions
Every January, many people make resolutions to lose weight, quit smoking, save more, etc. Why not add “write better” to your list? It might be easier than foregoing your favorite fatty foods, overcoming your nicotine addiction or adding to your bank account.
To begin, here are some “oldies but goodies,” things I’ve covered in previous newsletters but continue to challenge many writers.
- Use “its” when referring to an organization, not “their” (which refers to people). Examples: The company will hold its annual meeting. Gabe and Jenna will present their findings.
- Don’t use “$” and “dollars” at the same time. In general, “dollars” should be used without a monetary amount. Examples: We have saved $5,000. Every dollar counts.
- Periods and commas always go inside quote marks. Example: “Let’s go,” Laura said. “It’s cold out, but Millie needs her walk.”
- Only use “include” when you’re not providing a complete list; otherwise, use “are.” Examples: The Best Picture nominees include “Room” and “Spotlight.” The Best Picture nominees are “Room,” “Spotlight,” “The Revenant,” “Mad Max: Fury Road,” “Bridge of Spies,” “Brooklyn,” “The Big Short” and “The Martian.”
- Don’t believe everything spellcheck suggests in Microsoft Word. Example: When I wrote the phrase “it’s lean and mean,” where “it’s” correctly is the contraction of “it is,” Word suggested I use “its” instead (a possessive incorrect in this case).
Learn Top Marketing Trends
You are cordially invited to Top Trends, a dynamic opportunity to gain marketing knowledge to fuel your business success. I’m the writing and editing expert on the Q&A panel, and my fellow panelists are Stephanie West, website design and SEO; Simon Dukes, technology pathfinding; and Maria Pablo, photography. After brief presentations, we’ll answer all your hot questions about marketing in today’s competitive business world, plus you’ll have a chance to make some new professional connections.
The event takes place on Thursday, Feb. 25 from 12:30 to 2 p.m. at Hera Hub Mission Valley, 8885 Rio San Diego Dr., #237. Cost is $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Please let me know if you have any questions. If you wish to save a few bucks by registering in advance, call 619-800-1063. Hope to see you there!
Book Update
Equity Value Enhancement: A Tool to Leverage Human and Financial Capital While Managing Risk, is in the top 2% of all books carried by Amazon and #1 in Finance books. Why should you pick up a copy? Here are three very good reasons. 1. Author Carl Sheeler shares the wisdom gleaned from hundreds of advisors and owners over the past 25 years. 2. I served as Carl’s editor. 3. The proceeds from book sales will go toward funding a non-profit that rescues dogs and BLM mustangs to be used for canine and equine therapy in conjunction with healing veterans who suffer from PTSD, and TwoBearsRanch, which will be home to the animals and also host spiritual and business retreats. Learn more, including how to read sample chapters and buy the book, at why write.