on-writing.md

On Writing

General tips and lessons on writing.

Present solutions instead of problems.

(-) I can’t meet with you tomorrow morning because I’m booked. (+) Tomorrow afternoon works better for me. Would a 2 p.m. meeting fit your schedule?

State what you want, not what you don’t.

(-) Don’t leave your leftovers in the break room fridge over the weekend. (+) Remember to take your leftovers out of the break room fridge on Fridays.

Keep hyperbole in check.

(-) You always file your reports late. (+) I sometimes receive your reports after the deadline.

Try “I statements.”

(-) You never listen! (+) I find it hard to communicate when I’m worried that I’m not being heard.