And in case you prefer reading to watching, here’s the text version of the video.
Welcome to episode 2 of the video series about 5 common mistakes in STANAG 6001 writing and how to avoid them. And today we’re going to talk about form and style.
Let’s start with the form. What do I mean by that? So, basically, it’s about using the appropriate form: e-mail, letter, memo, report, essay. It is very important because every form has different requirements, has a different number of paragraphs. So, it is important to know the layouts of different forms of writing that are required during the exam, and use them appropriately when asked in the instruction. Another point is, as I have already mentioned, that every form of writing is divided differently into paragraphs and parts, and they need to be connected with each other. So you need to know what is required of you in each form and follow the rules.
It is all connected with making your text easy to follow, read and understand. Every form is organised in a way that should make it usable for your readers, which should make it user-friendly. It’s not random. It’s just necessary to use an appropriate form in particular circumstances.
Now, what about style? So, it’s a little bit connected because different forms may require different styles. For example, if you are asked to write a formal letter or e-mail then you’ll be required to use the formal style. On the other hand, you may be asked to write an informal note or letter or e-mail and then it is necessary to know what the elements of each type of style are and use them appropriately, also remembering not to mix them up. So, as I have mentioned, don’t mix the styles, follow the chosen one. Here are a few examples. If you are using formal style, then you avoid contractions such as I’m instead of I am. Or you avoid expressing your opinions by saying “I think” or ‘in my opinion” and so on. You also avoid simple sentences, using complex ones instead, because these are characteristics of the formal style.
As you can see, in the next episode of the series and the last one I will talk about accuracy and vocabulary. But before we move on to this last, third episode, I’d like to invite you to take part in a live workshop that I’m organising. The sessions will take place on Zoom. We’ll meet for 4 or 8 consecutive weeks, twice a week. You’ll be required to write a text for every meeting, and then in the meetings we’ll talk about your texts and we’ll learn how to avoid those and other mistakes in writing.
So, if you’re ready for a very intensive challenge, in a really small group, up to six people. then, I really invite you to take part in this workshop with me. Check out the details below, sign up and see you there. Bye.
