How to Write
August 10, 2024Memo draft
by David Oglivy
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- Read the Roman-Raphaelson book on writing three times.
- Write the way you talk. Naturally.
- Use short words, short sentences, and short paragraphs.
- Never use jargon. They are hallmarks of a pretentious ass.
- Never write more than two pages on any subject.
- Check your quotations.
- Never send a letter or a memo on the day you write it. Read it aloud the next morning - and then edit it.
- If it is something important, get a colleague to improve it.
- Before you send your letter or memo, make sure it is crystal clear what you want the recipient to do.
- If you want action, don’t write. Go and tell the guy what you want.
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Thumbnail Attribution HERE