Lesson 1 of 4 · 10 min

Start with a purpose and a clear sentence

Tell your reader what matters, using a specific subject and a useful verb.

Choose your reader

Before drafting, finish this sentence: I want this reader to understand or do ___. A message to a friend and a request to a manager need different details. For this course, imagine asking the person who runs a library, school, or workplace to make one practical improvement.

Put the action where readers can find it

Name who does what: 'The library closes at six.' A direct verb often makes an action easier to see than a phrase such as 'makes a decision about'. Active voice is useful when the actor matters; passive voice is useful when the action or affected person deserves attention.

Be precise without changing the meaning

Replace empty phrases with information the reader can use. 'Soon' may need a date; 'better facilities' may need an example. A shorter sentence is only an improvement if it keeps the necessary meaning. Do not invent details just to sound specific.

See it in practice

Starting point

I am writing this message in order to say that the room has some problems that need attention.

Using this skill

Please repair the two broken lights in the reading room before Friday's evening class.

The revision gives the reader an action, a location, and a deadline. These details are part of this imagined situation; in your own writing, use details you know.

01 / Check your understanding

Try the skill

Choose an answer for each question. You can try again after reading the feedback.

1. Which request gives a caretaker the clearest action? Something should be done about the place. Please replace the broken lock on the study-room door. There are a variety of important issues to consider.

2. Which revision keeps the meaning of 'The team made a decision to postpone the meeting'? The team cancelled every meeting. The meeting was unnecessary. The team decided to postpone the meeting.

02 / Put it into words

Make it your own

Choose a familiar place and one improvement it needs. Write a short request to the person responsible. Name the improvement and explain who would benefit. Keep this idea for the next lessons.

Write at least 30 words. Use the checklist and example to review your writing; this exercise does not give an automatic writing score.

Your writing:

0 / 30 words minimum Save your response with the button below.

Before you finish

I know who my reader is.
My request names one practical change.
My verbs and details make the meaning clear.

I have checked my writing against the checklist.

Read one possible response

Compare the choices this writer made with your own. Many different responses can work.

Please keep the school library open until seven on Wednesdays. Students who attend afternoon clubs currently have little time to borrow books. One later evening would let us choose reading material without missing our activities.

Complete the lesson by answering both questions correctly, reaching the writing minimum, and reviewing your draft.