CMN 279 Lecture Notes - Lecture 3: List Of Fables Characters, Paradigm Shift, Jargon

• School: Ryerson University
• Department: Communication
• Course: CMN 279
• Professor: John Burry

Document Summary

Ppl do not have a lot of time to read. The emphasis is on the focus of the audience and efficiency (last class) There is resistance to this type of writing: it doesn"t sound professional or businesslike enough, but the virtue is in how simple it is. Use common words, except for necessary technical terms (write to express, not impress) Use reasonable sentence lengths (8 words = 100% comprehension. 15 words = 90%) the longer the sentence, the more clauses, subjects, etc it becomes harder to understand. Use active voice verbs. (the subject performs the action)-> bob uses the new computer . Use personal pronouns: i, you, we (use in moderation, except in formal reports). It is only understood in one way, and can"t be interpreted two ways. Place subject as close as possible to the verb. Does not mean oversimplifying or dumbing down content.