Whether you’re writing an email, proposal, report, or presentation, you want to put your best foot, or in this case, your best words forward. Part of writing more professionally is simply upgrading your word choices.
There are certain words in the English language that sound more casual and others that give a more powerful impression. When you use power words in your writing, you can set yourself apart with more professional communication.
Here are 20 words or phrases you can use to make your writing sound more professional.
Provide
Instead of saying give, you can use the word provide.
For example…
Don’t say: I will give you a copy of the data from last quarter’s report
Instead say: I will provide you with the data from last quarter’s report.
Receive
Instead of saying get, you can use the word receive.
For example…
Don’t say: Did you get the package I sent via the pony last week?
Instead say: Did you receive the package I sent via the pony last week?
Attend
Instead of saying come, you can use the word attend.
For example…
Don’t say: I’m unable to come to Tuesday’s professional development session.
Instead say: I’m unable to attend Tuesday’s professional development session.
Assist
Instead of saying help, you can use the word assist.
For example…
Don’t say: Do you need me to help you with the upcoming project?
Instead say: Do you need me to assist you with the upcoming project?
Discuss
Instead of saying talk, you can use the word discuss.
For example…
Don’t say: Let’s schedule a time to talk about the issue.
Instead say: Let’s schedule a time to discuss the issue.
Certainly
Instead of saying yes, you can use the word certainly.
For example…
Don’t say: Yes, I agree with that idea.
Instead say: Certainly, I agree with that idea.
Modify
Instead of saying change, you can use the word modify.
For example…
Don’t say: We need to change the time of next week’s meeting.
Instead say: We need to modify the time of next week’s meeting.
In Conclusion
Instead of saying finally, you can use the phrase in conclusion.
For example…
Don’t say: Finally, keep in mind that I will be out of the office next week.
Instead say: In conclusion, keep in mind that I will be out of the office next week.
However
Instead of saying but, you can use the word however.
For example…
Don’t say: That’s a great idea in my opinion, but upper management must sign off.
Instead say: That’s a great idea in my opinion, however, upper management must sign off.
Moreover or furthermore
Instead of saying also, you can use the words moreover or furthermore.
For example…
Don’t say: Also, I found the report to include a compelling argument for plan B.
Instead say: Moreover, I found the report to include a compelling argument for plan B.
Or say: Furthermore, I found the report to include a compelling argument for Plan B.
Ramifications
Instead of saying consequences, you can use the word ramifications.
For example…
Don’t say: The consequences can be severe for all stakeholders if this falls through.
Instead say: The ramifications can be severe for all stakeholders if this falls through.
Consensus
For example…
Instead of saying opinion, you can use the word consensus.
Don’t say: We are seeking the opinion of all involved in the new project.
Instead say: We are seeking the consensus of all involved in the new project.
For instance
Instead of saying like, you can use the phrase for instance.
For example…
Don’t say: I want you to incorporate video in the presentation —like a 5 minute summary of the latest report for ease of understanding.
Instead say: I want you to incorporate video in the presentation. For instance, a 5 minute summary of the latest report for ease of understanding would work.
Straightforward
Instead of saying easy, you can say straightforward.
For example…
Don’t say: The directions for the next step are easy.
Instead say: The directions for the next step are straightforward.
Perspective
Instead of saying opinion, you can say perspective.
For example…
Don’t say: We are seeking the opinion of our accounting team before moving forward.
Instead say: We are seeking the perspective of our accounting team before moving forward.
Provided that
Instead of saying as long as, you can use the phrase provided that.
For example…
Don’t say: I am open to that option as long as you have data to back up the decision.
Instead say: I am open to that option provided that you have data to back up the decision.
Elaborate
Instead of saying “what do you mean”, you can ask someone to elaborate.
For example…
Don’t say: I’m not sure what you mean by that statement.
Instead say: Can you elaborate on that point?
Imagine
Instead of saying guess, you can say imagine.
For example:
Don’t say: I guess it’s time to test out a new hiring process.
Instead say: I imagine it’s time to test out a new hiring process.
Objective
Instead of saying goal, you can say objective.
For example:
Don’t say: Our goal is to double enrollment in the training.
Instead say: Our objective is to double enrollment in the training.
Additional Resources:
- 8 common grammar mistakes to avoid in business writing.
- How to edit your own writing before you hit send.
- How to write an angry email professionally in 8 steps.
The list of formal words for academic writing is not a necessity. Still, if you want your paper to sound professional, you need to use powerful words for writing. There are four reasons why it is essential:
- Compound words express more precise meanings. For example, the word “good” can mean anything, whereas the word “quality” is more unambiguous.
- Clever words refer to an academic style, and your essay must sound scholarly.
- Strong words are interchangeable and allow you to fill the paper with synonyms, making it more readable.
- Formal words are easier to make key words, for example, if you are preparing a paper for an academic journal. It isn’t easy to label a topic with simple and abstract words.
Good Vocabulary Words To Use For a Research Paper
All of the above reasons can be brought to one conclusion: if you use simple words, they will ruin even the best research. Imagine finding interesting facts about how the suffragette uprising affected the U.S. economy, but describing it with the words “the revolution was bad,” sounds incomprehensible and even a little silly, doesn’t it?
So let’s look at some examples of what good vocabulary words to use for a research paper. For your benefit, all examples are taken from real academic papers.
Plastic in construction is bad. | The use of plastic films as a moisture barrier in wall and roof structures has a negative result. |
We took a big piece for analysis. | A sample of large size, such as a weight of 200-300, can be given for analysis. |
We get this result. | The following probability distribution was obtained by running the model. |
This chapter gives information about economics. | This chapter provides a general overview of the economic situation in America in the 1970s. |
This is a good example. | This example is applicable to look at the social impact of the problem. |
The picture shows the process. | The diagram below illustrates how the neural network learning mechanism works. |
Present Your Paper With Powerful Words
In the table below, let’s look at what words to use for a research paper. Also, note the comparison of how complex words to use for a term paper makes the work deeper and more interesting.
Simple way | Better ways | |
The paper/ study/ article/ work… | … presents a low input protocol (SLIC-CAGE) for generating high-quality libraries. | … highlights the main line of tradition as opposed to Sinran’s interpretations. |
… outlines a detailed protocol for the gene characterization family. | ||
… features analysis of a complex metallurgical sample using an optical emission spectrometer with inductively coupled plasma. | ||
The paper/ study/ article/ work… | … discusses two different asymptotic expansions of matrix integrals. | … surveys some aspects of causality tests within autoregressive models. |
…questions methodological approaches to solving the problem of the unity of philosophical programs of mathematics justification. | ||
… investigates issues of classification and diagnostics of soils of mixed forest sub-zone. | ||
The paper/ study/ article/ work… | … considers details of the activation of the volcano’s thermal state and the localization of effective term anomalies by section | … clarifies details of the history of the oligarchic regime that prevailed in Athens between 404 and 403 B.C. |
… identifies Shannon’s theorem on silent coding. | ||
The paper/ study/ article/ work… | … analyzes results of optimization of traditional and intelligent prediction algorithms. | … evaluates the role of alliances in modern line shipping. |
… appraises the formation of Digital Art from its origins in the 1950s to the mid-2010s. | ||
… dissects early X-ray bursts followed by “plateaus”. | ||
The paper/ study/ article/ work… | … explains the fundamental provisions of scientific socialism. | … interprets how genetics and the environment influence the formation of criminals. |
… delves into the importance of using geotechnological tools in the study of natural resources. | ||
… explores the risks of spreading extremist ideas. | ||
Section X | … covers a general outline of the interaction between Postgres and the operating system. | … outlines the basic method of LAB-correction and its effectiveness. |
… deals with approaches to data processing without a teacher. | … highlights the meaning and basic procedures of export management. | |
… talks about the five types of changes in the law suggested by the analysis of this study. | … contemplates the country’s strategy for obtaining technical assistance. | |
Subject | … plays a vital role in the preservation of linguistic traditions in the culture. | … influences gender politics in European countries. |
… controls a wide range of social issues in America. | ||
… regulates trade flows from Asian countries. | ||
… constrains the spread of the feminist agenda. | ||
… governs stereotypes applicable to the culture in question. |
Use Smart Words To Describe The Topic
Here you will find examples of smart words to use for a research paper for describing the topic. All words to use for term papers are in bold, and the rest are used to show how useful phrases to include in sentences.
X Theory… | …is widely used as the basis for constructing discrete models of automata that recognize, generate, and transform symbol sequences. | … commonly/frequently implemented for calculations of physical problems, but it is known to lead to errors in calorimetric parameters when applied to calculations of molecules in the gas phase. |
To describe the recent focus on a topic
Much attention has been drawn to theory, the importance of which has increased even more with the emergence of new branches of science and technology. | Discussions regarding the results of liberal reforms and the search for a new strategy at the turn of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries have dominated research in recent years. |
Interculturality has gained much importance in hermeneutics in recent years, especially in the study of culture. | Pietro Galatino’s work has critically influenced academic dialogue of translators who oscillated between the forms of Jehoiada and Joaoi. |
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To identify the current majority opinion about a topic
The consensus has been that 5G technology is safe, and the arguments against it are conspiracy theories. | Prior research generally confirms that using this principle, the proportion of patients who emerge from unconsciousness can increase from 34% to 74%. |
Prior research substantiates the belief that traditional society, like the Mennonite ethno-confession, has difficulty parting with tradition. |
To describe the previous studies
Start with “Previous studies…” and go on with the following:
… indicate impaired glucose metabolism in patients with migraines during and outside attacks. | … contend that as part of the analytical function of marketing F1, to recognize an unstable market, marketing employees need to analyze the ratio of profits from short-term projects to the total net profit from all activities (high values of these indicators reduce the quality of income). |
… have documented carcinogenic risk of night shift work and artificial light. | … proffer to keep track of all parental payments as the first step for successful monitoring. |
… have demonstrated that Alzheimer’s disease is directly related to hippocampal cells. | … suggest that about two-thirds of the region’s glaciers could disappear in the next decade. |
… have shown that climate change is likely to increase turbulence on transatlantic flights | … have proven that Native Americans used mollusk shell beads as money. |
To express the breadth of our current knowledge base, including gaps
Much is known about how they form such unusual hives during relocation. | The academic community has extensively explored the process of formation of calcium carbonate particles of different shapes. |
But, little is known about the stability of such “structures”. | However, prior studies have failed to evaluate/ identify / (any other word suggested to replace “analyze” above) mechanisms of crystallization of calcium carbonate particles, the growth process of particles of different morphologies, as well as the dependence of particle morphology on the crystal phase of calcium carbonate. |
Combine | Prior research has thoroughly investigated anthropological and ontological aspects of Ambrose of Mediolano’s teaching on Caritas love. However, little research has been conducted to show that Ambrose of Mediolano’s teaching on love applies the general Christian paradigm of thinking, which is that it is better to suffer than to enjoy. |
Write a Strong Conclusion
Finally, we will tell you how and what words to use for a research paper when you are already writing the last part. Here it is important to show what idea you came up with in the end and what conclusion you reached. So the words to use for the term paper in the table below will help you to express this. On the left side of the table, you can see basic word choices, and on the right side, you can see smarter and more complex synonyms.
To express agreement between one finding and another
This paper/ study/ investigation… | … supports the hypothesis that emotional experiences can be associated with smells, and when those smells reappear, they can influence behavior by evoking the same mood. | … substantiates the author’s approach to distinguishing the characteristics corporation. |
… confirms previous findings of national organisations’ receptivity to interacting with experts in their respective fields and their willingness and ability to communicate information from research to a large audience. | ||
… corroborates that we should not try to “cure” homosexuality. | ||
… underlines the importance of striking a balance between protecting creditors’ rights (e.g., selling assets in the event of default). |
To present contradictory findings
… calls into question the feasibility of developing a PMM strategy in a volatile environment and suggests that a flexible PMM system would be a better approach. | … challenges all dinosaur protein and cell discoveries. |
… disputes a common perception is that children with autism have difficulty “reading” another person’s emotions. | |
… rebuts the assumption that age-related cognitive impairment is an obligatory and irreversible condition. | |
… refutes the connection between personality position and the experience of illness. | |
… disproves the widespread view in the scholarly literature that the Jadidic system of education was more successful. | |
… debunks the myth of corporal punishment in the family as a benign parenting practice that does not cause serious negative consequences for the child. |
To draw inferences from results
The data…
These findings…
… suggest the prospect of anti-apoptotic strategies to reduce the intensity of secondary damage and prevent the expansion of the zone of traumatic spinal cord injury. | … extrapolate notions of subjectivity and intensional state on living organisms or even on technical systems. |
… deduce that the appeals stage is of a special nature and applies only in certain cases. | |
… show the different orientations of externals and internals to forms of success: internal or external. | … surmise the system of evidence that declares the moral motive to be unconditionally priority over all other motives of being is expressed in the idea (expressed as early as Socrates): a single virtue is sufficient for happiness. |
… approximate hypothesis of the study. |
To discuss methods
This study…
X method…
… used chemically modified technologies to knock out microRNA29c expression which correlated with improved albuminuria in db/db mice. | … applied to reveal the potential of an abstract-logical method of the research of agricultural policy in retrospect under the angle of the observance of political-economic regularity concerning the correspondence of agrarian relations to the level and character of development of productive forces of agriculture. |
… administered using modern methods of instrumental examination of patients. | |
… performed questionnaire-type techniques. | … disseminated where precise measurement methods cannot be applied: in the humanities, where human beings and human relationships are the object of study, and in economics. |
… relayed the spirit and atmosphere of the time and was a necessary addition to the understanding of the essence of society’s state at that time. |
To explain the impact of a paper’s findings
This paper/ study/ investigation…
… demonstrates certain gaps in media literacy, which points to the need for preventive measures on personal safety on the Internet for adults and children. | … illustrates a possible scheme of action of the attacker and the situation of attack on the client. |
… proves that the Indo-European languages were spread by shepherds from the Eurasian steppe (according to the existing “steppe hypothesis”). | |
… shows how the brain learns and remembers, as well as which molecules are involved in these processes. | … evidences that the most frequent categories of manifestation of the author’s position are the values of uncertainty, while the lowest level showed the means of certainty, which can be explained by the desire of the authors not so much to categorically state their position, but, allowing the possibility, to interpret the facts cautiously. |
… strengthens the evidence base for the need to improve preventive measures at the individual and population level to reduce alcohol-attributable mortality. |
To highlight a paper’s conclusion
… establishes that the clinical predictors that determine the severity of patients with a non-malignant course of schizophrenia are not obligatory in the socialization of this category of patients. | … attributes that a long period of enforced isolation combined with a recessionary economy may cause people to reduce their consumption of luxury goods, opting to purchase necessities. |
… illustrates the relationship between the motivational sphere and socialization. | |
… proves that the paradox can be circumvented. | … advances the idea that the oligarchs are changing generations under the guise of lustration. |
What is professional writing?
Professional writing is the process of creating an informative, persuasive, and error-free piece of text as a job or service. The type of content that professional writers are typically engaged in ranges from academic texts like research papers to newspaper articles, websites, and social media posts. Professional writing often refers to writing within the context of a workplace but can mean any type of writing as a profession.
The purpose of professional writing is not only to entertain but also to educate.
To ensure their content is taken seriously, writers often follow set guidelines when they write for business purposes. These standards are globally accepted and established by organizations such as Forbes Magazine and Harvard Business Review, which will disregard work that does not meet professional standards.
All professional writers follow these guidelines when creating content, and in the case of ignorance on their part, they may have to re-write their work or risk having it rejected as unprofessional.
Professional writing is a type of creative work that’s often done by expert copywriters. Writing often needs to be carefully crafted with facts on the subject because clients can’t afford any mistakes or anything that would render the content ineffective. Without professional writing services, companies have to do their own research and spend countless hours trying to find the information they need for their projects.
The motive behind this type of work may be for personal entrepreneurial use or business environments when you have something specific that your company wants to convey.
Professional writers offer their services in an array of different forms, including web pages, social media posts, and newsletters.
Through content, you can define your authority on the subject matter to attract more business opportunities. This type of writing also influences buyers by providing them with consistent engagement between you and your audience through customer-centric messaging that provides true value for the buyer’s time.
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Empowering writers, not replacing them.
Why consider professional writing?
The purpose of professional writing is often to influence consumers’ buying decisions. Professional writing helps a business attract its target customers and engage them in the sales process through content that is relevant, valuable, and attention-grabbing.
Professional writers observe these set guidelines: use standard grammar, avoid using slang or jargon, provide context for unfamiliar words, stick to your topic, and include specific information about who you are targeting (the consumer) with your message.
As an individual, it’s important to consider professional writing when you’re in need of content. It may not be necessary to hire a pro writer for every project because sometimes fiction can be just as effective at advancing your agenda or making buyers want what you have. But if your specific goal is getting people excited about something and buying into it, hiring a professional will help achieve that for your target audience with ease through quality content creation without any worries about plagiarism or copyright infringement.
What are different types of professional writing?
Here are the most common types of professional writing documents that are used in almost all businesses.
1. Business letters
Business letters fall under the category of instructional text. Informational documents and minutes are both types of professional writing that can be used in business settings. They consist of different documents, such as user manuals and meeting minutes.
Writing a business letter can be formal and professional. The length of the letter depends on the purpose, the writer’s objective, and the message that needs to be conveyed. A good way to begin writing a business letter is by outlining what you want to say in your introduction paragraph before diving into your body paragraphs.
A business letter can be as short or long as the writer needs. The recipient’s address must always be included in a business letter, and it should also include who is writing the letter. Finally, the body of a business letter is where you write your main message.
A business letter is typically used to convey company information. A standard format for a brief paragraph should be followed, including the date and name of the sender, recipient, and salutation (“Dear Mr. Smith” or “Greetings!”) with an opening line that briefly states what you want to discuss. The body of your message follows this introductory line, followed by closing lines asking for feedback on your message if needed or thanking the recipient for their time.
2. Emails
Email writing is the most common type of business communication. Emails can be used to communicate with employees or customers, share information, provide instructions on how to use a product or service, or serve as an informational marketing tool.
3. Reports
Reports are documents that archive and communicate information, record incidents, or finalize projects and recommendations.
A report can be a formal written document for internal business purposes. One example is the findings and analysis for a marketing study that includes an introduction, executive summary, and information on the findings.
There are many different types of reports that can be created to provide information on a specific topic. Knowing how your audience is going to read the report will help you determine which type of report would be most beneficial for them.
The purpose of each section is important for readers, as they need to find the information they want. The quality of organization of your report will help them find what they are looking for.
Know what the audience is looking for in your report. Then, provide that information with each section of your document. Organizing reports can help readers find important information easily and quickly.
4. Newsletters
Business newsletters can be brief, punchy, and simple. You should maintain interest by keeping it brief, but you must also keep it interesting.
To maintain a strong audience, newsletters should be informative and include an interesting angle. This will keep your customers engaged with the company’s content as they learn about what is happening in their world.
Research shows that the perfect length for a newsletter is about 20 lines of text or 200 words. This helps you connect with more customers and boosts your content marketing strategy.
Newsletters are a powerful tool that can be used to improve your business’s credibility and authority. Newsletters boost content marketing strategies, which in turn increase engagement with customers. You can customize them for stronger engagement by providing unique messages tailored to readers’ needs.
5. Memos
Memo writing is an art form. It differs from other types of professional writing because it’s used within organizations to communicate information. In contrast, letters are typically written for people outside of an organization. The style should be brief and easy to navigate while maintaining a professional tone throughout the document.
Memo writing is an art form that requires a good structure. Brief, easy-to-read, and fast memos are more likely to be effective in bringing attention to problems and solving them with suggestions on how the problem can be solved or handled better.
Memos are short and to the point, which is what makes them effective. The goal of a memo should be clear and concise; it shouldn’t take more than one paragraph for the audience to understand what’s going on. When writing memos, keep your last paragraph actionable so that readers will take appropriate actions after reading your message (such as signing up for an internal email list or an event).
Include a brief closing statement with a summary of the key information from the memo. This can be a point-form summary or a short paragraph.
6. Press releases
Press releases are a great way of communicating your company, products, events, or policies to the public. They can be used to get people’s attention and share information about yourself with a broad audience. A press release is also an effective tool for marketing and PR purposes. Press releases often notify the media of an upcoming event in hopes that they will spread the word.
Press releases are short and to the point. PR professionals send press releases to propose news story ideas, which can then be published online or in print media.
Press releases are a tool used by PR professionals. The goal of a press release is to pique the interest of journalists or publications, which leads to increased traffic for websites and potential SEO opportunities. This can be done through various methods such as emailing reporters directly or sending out a mass email with a link that points back to your website. You can also post this on social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook.
While press releases are important to your business’s media relations, they don’t guarantee you exposure in the media.
7. Meeting agendas
A meeting agenda is a list of items and the timing for a meeting. The goal is to identify the meeting’s goals and discuss topics. A clear, well-written agenda can help you stay on track at meetings.
When a meeting starts, participants should already have an agenda. The purpose of the agenda is to set clear expectations for what needs to occur before and during a meeting.
The purpose of the agenda is to create a clear set of topics, objectives, and time frames for attendees. It sets expectations about what needs to occur before and during a meeting.
The agenda is a list of activities that participants hope to accomplish during their meeting. It saves time for all the involved parties since they can plan ahead with an agenda in hand.
8. Resumes and cover letters
A cover letter is your introduction to your resume, and it can be up to 400 words long. A good way to tie experience in with the job description is by mentioning the skills that you have specifically listed in the job description. It should also include a mention of how you meet the qualifications for the position.
The type of writing is formal and professional, so a similar style is perfect for any level of employment.
A professional resume writer’s job is to craft a compelling marketing document for a candidate. An ideal resume writer has experience in hiring, has industry-specialized knowledge or education, and often has formal training.
9. Handbooks
Handbooks are a great way for employers to outline strategies for thinking, writing, and acting. They can be valuable to both the employer and employee because they set out rules that should be followed. Handbooks protect employers against claims, but they also help managers build an ethical framework in which employees work.
Handbooks are a document typically available to employees and customers. They are an easily accessible guide to a company’s policies and practices, as well as an overview of management expectations.
Handbooks are also often legal documents that must be reviewed by a lawyer to ensure compliance with guidelines. Handbooks should adhere to consistent style rules for headers, lists, notices, and graphics.
Handbooks should also use tables and documentation to make it easier for the reader to understand.
10. Responses to customer complaint letters
One type of professional writing is creating memos and letters that respond to customer complaints or inquiries.
There are a few things you can do to handle customer complaints. First, clearly outline your plan for remedying the situation, and distribute it internally as well. Second, it’s easy to become defensive or write off responding to complaints as not worth the effort; however, those mistakes cost time and money in terms of lost business.
Responses to customer complaint letters often do not get communicated within a business. It is now more likely for customers to share feedback moving forward. Allowing customers to leave feedback can make it easier for them to continue doing business with a company in the future if they are satisfied by the interactions and feel like the response is adequate and do not fear retaliation from staff.
Depending on the field, most complaints might come via social media.
10x your content production
Empowering writers, not replacing them.
How to find a professional writing job
Upwork is a well-known site for finding writing work. There are many different types of freelance jobs available on Upwork, including blogging for companies or posting content online. You may also be able to find freelance work through other sites like Freelancer and Guru.
There are multiple ways to get started if you’re looking for professional writing opportunities. One way that beginners can start is by applying for small jobs or advertising on their blog or website with the help of an editor or content manager. The second way is to find a job on Upwork that suits your skill set and apply for it. If you’re having trouble finding work, try posting an ad on Craigslist.
Another alternative for budding writers is to take up freelancing as a hobby while unemployed or doing another job.
To find a professional writing job, you can join groups such as Freelance Content Writers. They are all relatively easy to join, and most clients will be willing or happy to work with fresh talent. In addition, flexible scheduling options and the chance for self-determination in your occupation is an important motivator for many people who choose this career path.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a professional writer, it’s important to know what types of writing jobs exist and how to find them.
Many different types of freelance writing can be pursued, such as fiction or nonfiction articles. It is also possible for writers to bag some quite lucrative freelance work by cold pitching employers who might need their services. Cold pitching involves drafting an email describing your skills and aligning it with the company goals before any other correspondence takes place.
Creative writing is a great way to make money and build your portfolio, but it can be difficult for new writers. Networking sites like Instagram are a good place to connect with others who may know of potential jobs in the industry or people looking for creative work. LinkedIn is full of businesses looking to hire professional writers, so it is also worth investing time into finding connections on this site.
On top of these networking tools, having an eye-catching LinkedIn summary that conveys what you do can help you get your foot in the door. It is also a search engine like Google, so potential clients will be able to find writers on this site too.
To find a professional writing job, you need to have an established body of work. One way you can accomplish this is by doing guest blogging on other blogs and sites that pay for posts. The best part about building your portfolio through these opportunities is that they help build trust with potential clients because you’ve already shown the ability to consistently produce quality content in different formats and scenarios.
What is professional writing and how is it different from other types of writing?
Professional writing is a type of writing that is designed to influence business and buying decisions. Writing for the consumer market is primarily entertaining or amusing. Professional writers are not limited to any one genre, but most professional writers write fiction, non-fiction, journalism, opinion pieces, and personal narratives.
How is professional writing different from other types of writing?
Professional writing is different from other types of writing because it revolves around business needs and targeting the consumer. It is also often structured and formatted for a target audience.
Professional writing is different from other types of written content because it focuses on the brand and value being communicated to the target audience. Professional writers write for business marketing campaigns, not personal blogs. Other forms of written work may be created by people without any experience in professional writing, which lack the stricter scrutiny of a business audience.
What’s the difference between professional and technical writing?
Professional writing targets business needs and the buying decisions of consumers. Technical writing is more specialized and is used in fields such as engineering, science, or technology.
Specifications are one type of technical document that provides an outline for construction or reconstruction by an unfamiliar but knowledgeable user, enabling effective distribution of requirements.
Technical writing is used to produce informational materials to provide instruction or guidance. User manuals are considered part of instructional business writing and must specify what needs to be completed and in what order so that the reader knows exactly what they need to do next.
Professional and technical writing are two very different types of writing. Technical writers need to specialize in a certain subject or business, while professional writers typically do not have such requirements and are more flexible when it comes to their position. They’re both skilled in communicating information clearly and concisely with the intended audience; however, professional writers add value by doing so through broader experience that they’ve gained over time as well as education from institutions like universities.
What is the difference between academic and professional writing?
The type of writing that is typically found in books, newspapers, magazines, and websites is referred to as professional. In contrast, technical writing is used for purposes such as instruction manuals, software tutorials, reports on technical projects, or commercial materials. Content-focused websites may offer news or other information that can be read by the general public.
Academic writing is usually written for academics who are conducting research in a certain field. In academic writing, the focus is on research results instead of business communications or consumers. In many cases, academic writing does not concern corporate activities and is not directly motivated by economics.
What are examples of professional writing?
Professional writing generally includes texts written for business purposes. A professional writer’s job entails composing and editing documents, such as letters and memos, to be effective in the workplace. An important distinction between a professional writer and an amateur is that professional writers often have more training than amateurs do and receive a salary or fee for their service.
Common examples of professional writing include internal corporate communications, legal documents, business reports, government policies, and scripts in the entertainment industry. Much of the writing conducted in a workplace falls into this category.
What is professional media writing?
Professional media writing is when one writes, produces, and publishes a piece of content that can be used in the professional sphere, such as in public relations, journalism, or advertising. The end goal for this type of writing is to get published by an official company or organization.
The required core skills are organized thought, good communication, excellent grammar, language skills, clarity, and conciseness. Professional media writers often take core classes such as copy editing, technical writing, journalism, or creative writing before they even begin their career in professional media writing.
Professional media writing is the act of communicating ideas to a broad audience. It involves technical, journalistic, or creative skills that are applied in various formats for print and digital media. Students who complete relevant training can communicate effectively with professional audiences through written content and design expertise across a variety of platforms.
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What is the salary range of professional writers?
According to Glassdoor, the average salary of a professional writer in the US is $39k per year, generally ranging from $21k to $71k based on the position and industry. Freelance writers may receive an hourly wage or fee per project. Many organizations hire writers, including large corporations, universities, and law firms.
Conclusion
We’ve reviewed the main categories in the broad field of professional writing. You can use Outranking’s SEO content software to structure and write many types of professional documents using AI-powered tools.
Written language skills are an integral part of many positions in almost every industry. Even staff positions and freelance opportunities that center around writing or editing skills can occur in multiple fields that don’t overlap.
From textbook proofreading to creative writing for websites, a writer’s profession exists comfortably within every industry imaginable.
Most people in the United States can write, but few can write well. Not all professionals understand the nuance of words, syntax, and style to properly hand out complex ideas in digestible ways for readers from various walks of life.
What Are Writing and Editing Skills?
The article you are reading right now was composed, edited, and redrafted before publication online.
Sometimes writing and editing is done by a team (some writing and some editing) or by one person.
Because written communication can be challenging, taking great care ensures that the content is accurate and read-worthy.
Yet, there are certain core skills that all writers and editors share. It is one thing to write for fun or privately in a diary. It is another thing entirely to write professionally. Even those that are natural writers may not do well professionally unless they practice and improve their abilities. On the other hand, many professional writers were at one time terrible writers.
That being said, writing is an acquired skill that can be developed with practice. Most writers have at least a bachelor’s degree. However, most employers want to see samples of your writing before they take a look at your education and work history.
Types of Writing and Editing Skills
Strong Grammar Skills
Even if you are writing with the assistance of an editor, you must make your points clear. As such, you cannot write well if you do not have a good grasp of spelling, sentence structure, punctuation, and all that good grammar entails. Automatic spell-checkers and similar software aids are useful, but they aren’t fully reliable.
Excellent writing and editing still requires an analytical, detail-oriented human eye.
If you are familiar with a specific usage style, such as The Chicago Manual of Style or Associated Press, put that down. And if you’re trained in other style guides such as medical or legal, mention those as well.
- Proofreading
- Revising
- Drafting
- Spelling
- Structure
- Style
- Punctuation
- Strong Vocabulary
- Using the Rhetorical Triangle
- Devise Structure
- Establish Tone
- Forming a Thesis
- Planning
- Building Outlines
Research Skills
As a professional writer, you could be called upon to write on topics you don’t know much about. This requires research, sometimes online. If you are good at finding and assimilating large amounts of information quickly, say so—and provide examples from your history to prove it.
- Analysis
- Reporting
- Proper Use of Search Engines
- Data Analysis
- Interpreting Statistics
- Report Writing
- Online Searches
- Identifying Audience
- Content Review
- Content Management
Word Processing Software
Some clients require the use of certain word processing programs, file sharing services, collaboration apps, blogging platforms, or website templates. Projects may also require other types of software, such as spreadsheets or video editing. The more of these you already know how to use, the better.
Be sure to list software programs relevant to the job description on your resume, especially if the description specifically states that they are a requirement.
If you can advise your client on which programs, apps, and platforms to use, that is even better.
- Content Management Systems (CMS)
- Microsoft Office
- MS Word
- Document Sharing
- Google Docs
- WordPress
- Word Processing
- DropBox Pro
- Printing Layout
- Document Layout
- Final Manuscript Production
- Mark-ups
- Marking Color Breaks
- Marking Head Levels
- Typesetting
- Working Sketches
Collaboration and Communication
Writing is often collaborative, while editing is always collaborative. The reality is that many people hire writers and editors because their own communication skills are poor.
To succeed, you must be able to work effectively with others, even when they are difficult to get along with or understand.
Active listening and assessment skills will go a long way toward building a positive rapport with your clients, no matter what their personality or background.
- Conducting Interviews
- Note Taking
- Coordinating
- Project Management
- Emotional Intelligence
- Teamwork
- Author Meetings
- Consulting
- Contracts
- Project Coordination
- Verbal Communication
- Written Communication
- Working with Reviewers
Technical Writer Skills
A technical writer prepares instructional and supporting documents to communicate complex technical information in a user-friendly manner.
They develop and gather feedback from customers, designers, and manufacturers to help identify areas of confusion, and present solutions to the design and development teams.
A technical writer is responsible for creating FAQs, charts, images, and training documents that can be easily understood by people in a wide range of backgrounds.
A technical writer must have strong communication skills, along with exceptional writing and grammar skills. A bachelor’s degree in Journalism, English, or Communications is often required. However, some companies require a degree and/or knowledge in a specialized field, like computer science, engineering, or finance.
- Ability to Work Autonomously
- Analyze Information and Draw Conclusions
- Create Diagrams, Drawings, and Charts to Explain Product Usage
- Develop and Maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
- Develop Style Guide
- Ensure Consistency
- Excellent Grammar and Punctuation
- Excellent Planning and Organizational Skills
- Gather User Feedback
- Generate Help Files and FAQs
- Help Users Understand Intricate and Technical Information
- Knowledgeable of Industry Regulations
- Limit Product Complexity
- Maintain and Update Document Library
- Manage Documentation Process
- Multitask Assignments
- Prepare Internal and External Technical Documents
- Provide Solutions to Product Issues
- Review Documents for Completeness and Accuracy
- Standardize Product Content
- Strong Attention to Detail
- Strong Understanding of Product Features and User Needs
- Product Knowledge
- Understand Information Design and Architecture
- Work Closely with Technical and Non-Technical Team Members
- Work Well Under Pressure to Meet Deadlines
- Write and Edit Product Publications
- Write and Organize Instructional Documents
More Writing and Editing Skills
- Identifying Theme
- Ethics
- Omni Media
- Multi-lingual
- Newsletters
- Business Storytelling
- Blog Writing
- Journalism
- News Writing
- Organizing
- Print Writing
- Proposal Writing
- Social Media
- Web Writing
- Presentation Writing
- Creative Writing
- Feature Writing
- Magazine Writing
- Infographics
- Inductive Reasoning
- Deductive Reasoning
- Logic
- Deadlines
- Stress Tolerance
- Lie Detection
- Establishing Rapport
- Gauging What Will Interest Readers
- Handling Criticism from Editors and Readers
- Incorporating the Right Data to Support Storylines
- Interviewing Experts
- Networking
- Protecting the Confidentiality of Sources
- Reading Comprehension
How to Make Your Skills Stand Out
Prepare a Portfolio: Besides a traditional resume, you will likely have to provide a portfolio of successfully completed projects and a collection of writing samples when you apply for work as a writer or editor.
Be Ready to Provide Samples: For some positions, you may be asked to submit writing samples in place of or in addition to a cover letter. Choose those projects and writing samples that are most relevant to the client’s project.
Use Skill Words During Job Interviews: In many cases, educational or work history or subject matter are not directly related to writing or editing might be relevant to a particular job or project. Always be on the lookout for the possibility that your special expertise may be relevant.
Writers develop content for books. They write novels, poetry, short stories, comics and other forms of literature. These forms of writing can be fictional or non-fictional.
Writer Jobs: Open positions
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Personality Type
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Artistic
/
Investigative
Knowledge
- Spelling
The rules concerning the way words are spelled.
- Grammar
The set of structural rules governing the composition of clauses, phrases, and words in any given natural language.
- Publishing market
The trends in the publishing market and the type of books that are are appealing to a certain audience.
- Types of literature genres
The different literary genres in the history of literature, their technique, tone, content and length.
- Writing techniques
The different techniques to write a story such as the descriptive, persuasive, first person and other techniques.
- Publishing industry
Key stakeholders in the publishing industry. Acquisition, marketing and distribution of newspapers, books, magazines and other informative works, including electronic media.
- Literature
The body of artistic writing characterized by beauty of expression, form, and universality of intellectual and emotional appeal.
- Copyright legislation
Legislation describing the protection of the rights of original authors over their work, and how others can use it.
Skills
- Use specific writing techniques
Use writing techniques depending on the type of media, the genre, and the story.
- Select subject matter
Select subject matter based on personal or public interest, or ordered by a publisher or agent.
- Consult information sources
Consult relevant information sources to find inspiration, to educate yourself on certain topics and to acquire background information.
- Write storylines
Write the plot of a novel, play, film, or other narrative form. Create and develop characters, their personalities, and relationships.
- Write dialogues
Write conversations between characters.
- Develop creative ideas
Developing new artistic concepts and creative ideas.
- Perform background research on writing subject
Run thorough background research on writing subject; desk-based research as well as site visits and interviews.
- Critically reflect on artistic production processes
Critically reflect upon processes and outcomes of the artisitc production process in order to ensure quality of experience and/or product.
- Apply grammar and spelling rules
Apply the rules of spelling and grammar and ensure consistency throughout texts.
Optional knowledge and skills
linguistics
liaise with book publishers
write to a deadline
critique other writers
attend book fairs
evaluate writings in response to feedback
teach writing
manage writing administration
proofread text
respect publication formats
consult with editor
negotiate publishing rights
promote your writings
negotiate artistic productions
Source: Sisyphus ODB