“Try as we might, we write what we write.” ― bg Thurston
Formal? Casual? Humorous? What writing style should you use?
When I read old documents or stories, I’m often amazed by how much writing styles have changed. Over the years, my own style has morphed into many different forms. Yours has, too, even if you don’t realize it. You wouldn’t use the same style for writing a term paper as you would for a tweet, but how do you know what style to use for everything in between?
It depends.
The speed of change in our day has accelerated. Social media, texting, and constant digital communication affect writing styles. We struggle to keep up while remembering that all writing situations aren’t the same.
- Writing a résumé and cover letter to introduce yourself to a new employer? You’ll want a more formal, no-nonsense style. Depending on the type of job you may also want to refer to your website or social media presence, which could reflect a more casual voice.
- Composing a blog? Appropriate styles may be anything from teaching a craft (very detailed instructions) to convincing someone of the rightness of your opinion (cogent, well-arranged points), from storytelling to selling a product. The most important thing with a blog is to develop a voice that fits the subject and the intended audience. Changing the tone can keep readers interested enough to keep coming back.
- Sending a business email or newsletter? Be clear, reasonable, and concise. The voice you use will depend on the audience you’re trying to reach.
- Creating a book or short piece of fiction or nonfiction? Your options are wide open. Think about what you want a reader to learn, or how you want a reader to feel. Play around with different styles, but remember that every paragraph must be engaging if you want people to keep turning the next page.
To be a better writer across a variety of genres and styles, read widely. Study at least twenty résumés before writing your own. Save business emails you’ve received that were extremely well-written, and examine what makes them good. When a paragraph in a book or story blows you away, reread it a few times and absorb the stylistic elements that make it good. Use humor if you’re good at it and if it fits the style of the situation; avoid humor where it might distract or offend.
As with almost any skill, to get better at writing, keep writing. Be self-critical. Ask for the opinions of people you respect.
And if you need some help analyzing your style, or you’d like assistance with creating, contact me.
You can do this. Keep experimenting and learning. It will pay off in the end.
© Melissa Bane Sevier, 2018