TIPS ON WRITING

If you can write a letter, you can write a short report. In fact, that's the best attitude - as though you're writing to a friend. Because what you offer is basically sound, friendly advice or instructions in the form of information.

But be careful to always assume the basic intelligence of your reader - donÕt talk down. Although you are giving someone new information, that person can - and usually does - know a great deal about the subject.

The best writing is clear, easy to read, and follows an understandable sequence. Be careful not to meander or repeat. Each idea or separate point should have a beginning, a middle, and an end.

Use subheads to break up the blocks of writing and write short paragraphs and simple sentences. This is not a contest for best prose, but be sure to use the basic rules of grammar and punctuation.

Since you can't re-person understanding your drawingof plans, chart or graph, talk about what it means. Be sure to include helpful information, tips, or any keys to reading illustrations. Again, you don't have to be an artist to draw a simple "stick figure" picture, as long as it's clear and explains what you want to convey.

You must have something to say. Reread your manuscript and scrutinize it to be sure you have something valuable to offer. That's a basic key to success in selling information.

The standard manuscript form is typed, double space with side and top margins of about 1 1/2 inches and at least a one inch margin at the bottom. If you are not an expert typist or don't have an excellent quality typewriter, hire someone to complete the finished copy. It's not expensive and is absolutely necessary, since THAT IS YOUR PROD_UCT.

GO SLOWLY AT FIRST

You have your manuscript and you're ready for printing. Don't go to the expense of professional volume printing-not yet. Investigate your local "instant press" printers. Photo offset is a very inexpensive and efficient way to reproduce copies from several hundred to several thousand.

If you want to test a few dozen at first, even photocopies are reasonable in price. Since you have a clean manuscript, the copies will be clear and easy to read - a product to be proud of.

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