Connectors -- conjunctions,
punctuation, and transitional phrases -- all allow readers to process
information promptly by creating balance and relationships between
sentence parts. The connectors are performing the same work as
verbs, objects, modifiers and multiple subjects.
Here are four uncommon connections that will create an easier flow for
your readers:
1. Parallel Constructions. This side-by-side structure builds the bond
between multiple joined parts. Example: In the children's story, Peter Pan
stresses the need "for Wendy to sew" his shadow back on, "for her to
return" to Never Never Land with him to take care of the Lost Boys, and
"for them to leave" before her parents returned.
2. Beginning your sentence with a conjunction. One way to divide a long
sentence or several independent clauses is to make each clause an
independent sentence. And, but and or are three common conjunctions used
frequently. This shortens the sentence, creates a conversational level,
and keeps the reader moving forward.
3. Creating A Series Without A Conjunction. Using punctuation, usually
commas but not limited to them, instead of words to separate, opens the
door of possibilities in the reader’s mind. It allows them to "feel" the
"something more" and mindfully fill in their own words. The series allows
readers to sense a separateness rather than a joined relationship.
Example: Tinker Bell got angry, didn't like Wendy, flew frantically around
the room. Many times editors want to add a conjunction -- and, but or or
-- to the last series. When actually it is intentionally not added to
create the feeling of possibilities. Ask yourself, "Do I want to create
this feeling, or be more adamant with the reader?"
4. Listing Your Series In Order of Length -- From Short to Long. Arranging
the words of your series from short to long and from simple compound/
complex make the process easier to understand. And if you can list them in
alphabetical order
it expands flow. There has also been research done on how people try to
memorize and slow down when they read this type of series.
In the first example, parallel construction, the listing was an exception.
The complex part was in the middle because of the chronological series of
events.
In the first paragraph, "verbs, objects, modifiers and multiple subjects"
is listed in the short to long and create an easier reading flow. If you
read the sentence this way: "The connectors are performing the same
work as modifiers, multiple subjects, verbs, and objects" your mind stops
and goes. Many times this causes the reader to be confused or even for
them to exit.
Web writing differs from paper-printed writing because of the way it is
read. People scan what they read. This is people don't blink and they
approach the Net with a mind set of information overload. Additionally,
this is why there are different structural rules. Using connectors is just
one such change you need to make in your writing for the World Wide Web.
(c) Copyright, Catherine Franz.
All rights reserved.
About the Author:
Catherine Franz is a marketing veteran, a Certified
Business Coach, Certified Teleclass Leader and Trainer, speaker, author, and
Master Attraction Practitioner. Business
client’s include professional firms, restaurants, retail stores, coaches,
employees using writing for advancement, and independent professionals across
the globe, i.e., the USA, the United Kingdom, Europe, Australia and New Zealand.
For daily marketing tips and electronic newsletters on marketing,
Universal Laws of Attraction, and marketing writing/copywriting.
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