Recent content from Stephen Wilbers
After 26 years and 1,000 columns, columnist begins a new chapter
Although I will continue teaching and writing, I've decided to make this, my 1,000th column, my last.
Choose your words with decision and write with concision
We're surrounded by sloppy language and careless word choice. And if we don't watch out, we risk developing bad habits.
Effective Writing: If you want to connect with people, write with heart
I was moved by Jon Tevlin's June 15 column about Joe Minjares, owner of Pepitos Restaurant in south Minneapolis. Minjares is struggling with the effects of pulmonary fibrosis.
Effective Writing: When things get complicated, take it step by step
If you are like many people, you love to have written more than you love to write. The hard part is getting there.
Commit yourself to precision even as language changes
"Are we so surrounded by informal conversation," writes Jim, "that clear and effective writing is a luxury?"
Do your words convey respect, trust and understanding?
Here's a quick way to assess how you come across to others. It's based on research by communication expert Jack Gibb.
Create a less anxious workplace through 'Rogerian persuasion'
Whether you're feeling exuberant or terrified (or something in between), here's how you can work to create a more positive, more productive and less anxious workplace (and world).
Wilbers: Can you find 26 missing commas in this column?
If you find 25, you're just short.
Your writing speaks volumes about your competence
Errors distract the reader from your message and undermine your credibility even tho they may not interfere with comprehension or peak your readers' curiosity.
How to make sure your writing is projecting the right image
In writing, you have the opportunity to be more organized, thorough and logical, perhaps even livelier, funnier and more entertaining, than you are in real life.
Resolve to use punctuation to your advantage in 2016
What better time than now to prepare yourself for a happy, prosperous and peaceful new year? So let's lay the foundation for your extraordinary success and unsurpassable accomplishments by reviewing … you guessed it, correct punctuation!
Top 10 reasons you should learn to use proper grammar
Here are a couple to start us off: Grammatical errors are distracting, and "bad writing makes bright people look dumb," as William Zinsser once observed so succinctly.
