Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Breaking the Rules of Writing

This blog is filled with writing rules. And thanks to the blunt, declarative style I use here at Quick Writing Tips, it seems like you've got to follow all these rules to the letter.

I've got news for you. You don't have to follow any rule. Every rule should be broken from time to time.

Take the alleged rule to never end a sentence in a preposition. Sure, it's a reasonable rule, until the moment you write this is something up with which I shall not put! in order to follow it.

The same goes for the rule banning sentences beginning with But or Because. Hey, once in a while maybe you can even break the rule on wimpy qualifier words. Perhaps.

Your rule-breaking should also include your writing habits. For example, I tell readers to write every day. But an occasional vacation from writing can help you write more effectively and consistently.

The bottom line: there are only two truly unbreakable rules in writing:

1) Say what you're saying clearly.
2) Make it interesting.


Those rules should never be broken.