While grammar seems contradictory, it is true that writing copy isn’t all about grammar. In order to write truly exceptional copy – the kind of copy that people will find useful enough to actually finish reading – there are a number of factors to consider when producing an article, news story or press release. Learn what these are and how to use them together in order to maintain balance in your written work by finding out what these are and how to use them together:
Content matters, first and foremost
Essentially, content refers to the overall value of the write-up – the overall meaning of the piece. Your write-up doesn’t matter how many words you use or how many words you choose to use. It is all about what you are trying to say to the readers. Are you substituting good grammar and big words because you don’t know what else to say?
Although you shouldn’t be afraid of big words, it’s always better not to complicate things for your readers. Determine your target audience first – their interests, capacity, what they find useful and interesting – and then write for them. By placing more importance on what your readers can get out of your write-up, you will be producing more substance out of your copy. After all, what’s great grammar if there’s nothing good in what you have to say?
Focusing solely on grammar is distracting
A common mistake among writers is obsessing over grammar when writing. As a result, they get distracted, get derailed from their thoughts. Imagine having a great idea and then worrying about where to place a comma or which clause to use first. It is possible for great ideas and content to get lost and confused with other concerns or ideas as a writer.
Initially, don’t worry too much about grammar when writing. Don’t worry about grammar when inspiration strikes. Write down words as they come to you. You should only check and improve your writing when you are done. Only then should grammar be a concern. In the end, how can you proofread something you haven’t even written?
Even the greatest focused on substance and not on form
Ernest Hemingway and William Faulkner had a famous rivalry. Faulkner, a writer praised for his intricate prose style (which confused his readers at first), criticized Hemingway for his simplicity.
Hemingway fired back, saying that there are ‘simpler and better words’, even saying that Faulkner shouldn’t think that ‘big emotions come from big words’. Refusing to give in and use what he called ’10-dollar words’, Hemingway continued to write in his simple, easy style. He is still a well-loved and much-admired author today.
Grammar is not everything, but…
The value of good grammar cannot be overlooked just because it isn’t the end-all and be-all of writing.
As a sign of professional skill and experience, good grammar is equated with professionalism. Furthermore, it is considered as a sign that what you have written is reliable. However, bad grammar is the work of amateurs, lazy writers, and scammers.
Don’t ignore grammar when you’re writing copy. Use it to improve what you’ve already written and improve your writing skills.