Modules 15 and 16

Using the right word is critical to get across the proper message, and module 15 explores how to choose the appropriate word.  To get your meaning across it is important to use a word with the proper denotation, or literal meaning, for your idea.  You must also be able to craft your words so that you can get the response you want.  Connotation, or the emotions that a word creates, will help you do this.  You can use “fearful” if you are looking to be negative, but if you would like a more positive response from your reader then it might be helpful to use “cautious”.  It is useful to know that jargon should only be used when it is essential and that technical jargon is more acceptable than business jargon. 

Module 16 helps with revising sentences and paragraphs.  You should make your style give off a feeling of friendliness and business, and make sure to avoid using contractions or slang.  Some things you can do to improve your style of writing are to use clean pages when starting, have someone else read your message out loud to you, and read and write a lot.  Probably the most useful part of the module is what to look for when revising sentences. You should try to use active verbs, not be wordy, vary length and structure, use “you”, and incorporate parallel structure.