Don't Say What Not to Do

One element of the tips writing formula I teach is to start the first sentence with a positive verb. That means telling the reader or listener what TO do. It's not uncommon for me to see at least a few tips of people's booklets starting with the word "don't" or "avoid." The challenge with that is it typically leaves the reader or listener without any idea of what to do instead. Telling someone what NOT to eat is less helpful (by a whole lot!) than suggesting what TO eat. Anytime you find yourself starting a tip with "don't" or "avoid," ask yourself what it is you want them TO do, and write that instead.

Until next time,
Paulette - telling you what TO do
www.tipsbooklets.com