Week 4 Assignment – CRITIQUE/INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS: Finishing ‘Op-Ed’ web opinion piece; reading and critique on article by Bernstein (as a blog entry); ‘How to’ instructional web page materials (choice of serious or ‘tongue in cheek’ approach). (Written 28/10/08).
When writing for the living web, Mark Bernstein suggests using the following tips:
1. Write for a reason: Write with passion and honesty. Write for yourself.
2. Write often: Be consistent. Write often, even if it’s not much. Inconsistent writers are seen as untrustworthy.
3. Write tight: Consider the craft of your writing. Use rich, clear, precise vocabularly and omit unnecessary words.
4. Make good friends: Read widely, give useful feedback and share ideas.
5. Find good enemies: State your opinions firmly and clearly but don’t be seen to be a bully. Make good friends with good enemies.
6. Let the story unfold: Keep your writing exciting. Change subject to alter the pace and tone of your writing. Intrigue your reader.
7. Stand up, speak out: Know the facts and then state you opinion confidently. Don’t lie.
8. Be sexy: Be honest and intimate with your reader. The more of yourself you put into your writing, the more engaging and real it will be.
9. Use your archives: Archive all your previous posts.
10. Relax: Find your voice and embrace it. Be yourself.
View the full article 10 Tips on Writing the Living Web by Mark Bernstein at: http://www.alistapart.com/articles/writeliving
