Rules of usage are not enough; good legal writers must consider these 11 points

Good writing is more than adherence to elementary rules of usage. Consider these when you write:

• Vocabulary — the choice of appropriate words
• Organization — the effective arrangement of thought
• Topic flow — the appropriate articulation of concepts
• Transitions — the connections between ideas
• Structure — the proper elements of a document
• Audience — the knowledge held by the expected readership
• Tone — the manner or spirit of addressing readers
• Style — the types of sentences and the cadence of prose
• Clarity — the fit between idea and expression
• Accuracy — the fit between expression and reality
• Timing — when to write and when, and how often, to edit

Because writing is an art and a skill, a process and a business, an end in itself and a means to other ends, as legal writers, we cannot possibly confine ourselves to the rules of usage to improve our writing. To that end, the above points, among others.

Learn more about how plain language principles can help you transform into a better, effective writer.