ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an emphasis on a writing formula in order to get started writing. Many students have a problem in knowing where and how to get started with what seems to be a daunting prospect: writing a proposal or writing the entire thesis. Scott Hotaling has written a great essay with 10 top rules to help students be concise with their own writing. The first 5 rules include take writing seriously, identify and stick to the message, get to the point, keep the methods and results contained, and do not repeat (too often). The second 5 rules include avoid unnecessary or inefficient ‘lead-ins’, use first-person, active voice, remove unnecessary words, simplify the language, and seek and embrace feedback. Writing professional emails are used as an opportunity to write concise messages that communicate efficiently and precisely the aim of students’ message.
