PART I
Writing Rules: How to Write Better
(and How to Hate Writing Less)
here is no one way to write—just as there is no one
way to parent a child or roast a turkey. But there are
terrible ways to do all three. And with each, you've
got to have a basic understanding of the process before
you begin. I'm going to assume you have that—you know
enough, for example, to procure an oven and a pan before
you begin to roast anything.
In other words, this book assumes that you are
equipped with some very basic tools: a working knowledge
of English (that means basic levels of grammar, spelling,
usage, and punctuation). And I mean very basic: if you
recognize that this is a sentence and not, say, a rhinoceros . .
. we're good, and you can safely proceed knowing you aren't
out of your depth. (In Part II, we'll talk about sharpening those
tools in your content tool shed.)
It also assumes—or hopes is perhaps the better word—
that you come with a bit of gung ho: an eagerness to become
T
