The basic writing process includes choosing words, developing phrases, and forming sentences and paragraphs to produce a coherent message. The fundamental element of the message is the word—choosing words begins the process. The ability to choose precise words to express your thoughts is essential in both written and oral communication. Your communications will be clear and effective if you choose simple, concise, appropriate, correct, positive, and specific words. As you begin the writing process, refer to the lists and tables of words and phrases in this chapter. Using these lists and tables to choose acceptable words will assist you in developing your message.

Take some time to review the principles discussed in this chapter. Make a list of any words or phrases that you feel do not present your communication skills positively. As you progress in your studies, remove these words when you feel you have mastered their replacements. Begin to collect letters and other kinds of communication items that you get in your personal mail or on your job (with your employer’s permission). You will need these items to analyze the activities you will encounter later in the course.