The Central West Coast Chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association recently hosted a webinar for members dedicated to the art of writing. Roy Peter Clark, Veteran Writing Coach and Scholar at the Poynter Institute guided members through the workshop. We explored a sampling of the strategies coined in many of Clark’s authored books. Here are the top takeaways:
- Think of periods as “Stop Signs.”
- Slow down the pace of information when writing. Think bite-sized sentences for better comprehension.
- Order words for emphasis.
- There is a power in placing words strategically. It makes text more interesting when you put strong words at the beginning or end of a sentence. This is why many quotes, such as in press releases, feature a middle attribution.
- Don’t get lost in order immediately. Get words down for a draft and then revisit to order words.
- White space is the break for paragraphs.
- Vary paragraph lengths and add white space for improved digestion.
- Short sentences speak truth.
- The most powerful sentences are concise and often feel like “gospel.”
Clark opened his literary toolbox to members and shared many tips and tricks through modern communication examples. Baby Yoda may have made an appearance to discuss the importance of word order and sentence structure.
Interested in learning more? Check out these books by Clark and make sure to stay updated on future events with FPRA.
