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Paul Siegel and Starweaver Instructor Team

Are you a business writer or technical writer?  Do you need to do technical writing or software documentation writing?  If so, this course is for you.

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Are you a business writer or technical writer?  Do you need to do technical writing or software documentation writing?  If so, this course is for you.

Maybe you need to communicate better in highly technical software documents, business reports, PowerPoint presentations or (simply) by email. Again, this course is for you. Why?  Dan Graham created "The Writing System” to help you produce clear, effective and impactful communications every time.  The Writing System provides you a simple but proven series of steps that ensure you get your message across, and speak exactly to what you want to achieve in that writing, and what your reader actually wants to hear.

Dan's system was created by years ago and has stood the test of time. It is the subject of various books, as well as having been delivered in many hundreds of company and business lectures and training classes.  It is now the practice of 100s of 1000s of professionals worldwide, and "required reading" at many of the top organizations. Now, this program is available to you in a practical and useful pre-recorded format.

The writing system we employ in this course uses 12 steps and almost 60 practical techniques to walk you through from initial writing analysis to final copy, producing documents that succeed every time. For each writing technique, the course provides tutorial with exercises and thoughtful answers. Special instructions help professionals for whom English is a second language. Advanced techniques help teams write long documents such as proposals. This course includes a separate section about writing professional emails, covering tenses, verbiage, and tone.

The approach Dan teaches used can be employed in the simplest of emails, software technical documentation, strategy documents, business plans and virtually every communication.

The program is built from videos and supplemental pdf documents where you follow along with Dan, including through e-book extracts that align to and support each of the videos. The program includes 38 video modules, as well as supplemental materials, averaging approximately 7-10 minutes each.

The modules are structured, as follows:

          - Introduction & Overview

          - Step 1 – Analyze Purpose

          - Step 2 – Analyze Audience

          - Step 3 – Writing the Purpose Statement

          - Step 4 – Gathering information

          - Step 5 – Writing the sentence outline

          - Step 6 – Writing the draft

          - Step 7 – Revising content and organization

          - Step 8 – Editing for coherence

          - Step 9 – Editing for clarity

          - Step 10 – Editing for economy

          - Step 11 – Editing for readability

          - Step 12 – Conclusion and final thoughts

          - Appendix B – Tips for writing emails

          - Appendix C – ESL Articles, Attitude and Approach, and Tenses

The instructor and his support team are available for the lifetime of your course access to answer any questions and comments. The goal is to help you polish and perfect your writing communications skills.

More about this course and Starweaver

This course is led by a seasoned author, editor, business executive and technical writer with many years of hands-on, in-the-trenches editing and writing work. It has been designed, produced and delivered by Starweaver. Starweaver is one of the most highly regarded, well-established training providers in the World, providing training courses to many of the leading financial institutions and technology companies, including:

Ahli United Bank; Mashreqbank; American Express; ANZ Bank; ATT; Banco Votorantim; Bank of America; Bank of America Global Markets; Bank of America Private Bank; Barclay Bank; BMO Financial Group; BMO Financial Services; BNP Paribas; Boeing; Cigna; Citibank; Cognizant; Commerzbank; Credit Lyonnais/Calyon; Electrosonic; Farm Credit Administration; Fifth Third Bank; GENPACT; GEP Software; GLG Group; Hartford; HCL; HCL; Helaba; HSBC; HSBC Corporate Bank; HSBC India; HSBC Private Bank; Legal & General; National Australia Bank; Nomura Securities; PNC Financial Services Group; Quintiles; RAK Bank; Regions Bank; Royal Bank of Canada; Royal Bank of Scotland; Santander Corporate Bank; Tata Consultancy Services; Union Bank; ValueMomentum; Wells Fargo; Wells Fargo India Solutions; Westpac Corporate Bank; Wipro; and, many others.

Starweaver has and continues to deliver 1000s of live in person and online education for organizational training programs for new hires and induction, as well as mid-career and senior level immersion and leadership courses.

If you are looking for live streaming education or want to understand what courses might be best for you in technology or business, just google:

starweaver journey builder starweaver[dot]com

Happy learning.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Define your audience and intended outcome (purpose) of your content before starting to write.
  • Apply a systematic writing process that works each and every time, and will stick with you for years.
  • Organize your ideas and thoughts in a better way to ensure your audience "gets it," and you land your points effectively.
  • Compose clear, concise communications which impresses your audience, gets the job done, and improves your career trajectory.
  • Draft documents are well-planned, thoughtful and ensure ease of readability for your audience.
  • Get your email points heard immediately, at the top of the communications, helping you to get what you want.
  • Increase the speed and productivity of your digital, written, and oral communication.

Syllabus

Introduction

Just a brief "hello" and explanation for you.

Your instructor, Dan Graham, provides an overview of what you will learn in this course and the course structure.

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Step 1 - Analyze Purpose

In this module, you will learn how to analyze the purpose and goals of your writing, including understanding your intended audience and the context in which your writing will be received.

Quiz for Lecture 3
Step 2 - Analyze Audience

This module includes strategies for analyzing and understanding your intended audience, including their needs, expectations, and potential biases, in order to tailor your writing effectively.

Quiz for Lecture 4
Writing Your Purpose Statement

In this module, you will learn how to write a clear and concise purpose statement that effectively communicates the goals and objectives of your writing.

Quiz for Lecture 5
Step 4 - Gather Information

This module covers the importance of gathering accurate and relevant information in the writing process, as well as various methods for collecting information, such as research, interviews, observation, and questioning.

Quiz for Lecture 6
Step 5 - Write Sentence Outline

In this module, you will learn the first steps for creating a sentence outline, including how to organize your ideas and create a clear structure for your writing.

This module includes the next steps for creating a sentence outline, including how to refine your ideas and create a logical flow for your writing.

In this module, you will learn how to complete a sentence outline by adding supporting details and transitional phrases, and by reviewing and revising your outline for coherence and clarity.

This module covers the final steps for creating a sentence outline, including how to use the outline as a guide for writing and how to revise and edit your outline as needed.

Quiz for Section 6
Step 6 - Write Draft

In this module, you will learn how to turn your outline into a draft, including strategies for staying on track, organizing your ideas, and developing your writing style.

Quiz for Lecture 11
Step 7 - Revise Content and Organization

This module includes strategies for organizing your writing after the initial draft is complete, including how to revise and edit your writing for clarity, coherence, and effectiveness.

In this module, you will learn how to revise the content of your writing for clarity, coherence, and effectiveness, including how to assess the organization and development of your ideas and how to make necessary changes.

Quiz for Section 8
Step 8 - Edit for Coherence

This module covers strategies for editing your writing for coherence, including how to ensure that your ideas flow smoothly and logically and how to use transitional devices to connect your ideas.

In this module, you will learn how to effectively use repetition of key words and phrases to create emphasis and connect ideas in your writing.

This module includes strategies for starting your writing with a clear and concise main point or thesis statement, including how to establish your purpose and grab the reader's attention

In this module, you will learn how to use transitional words and phrases to connect ideas and create a smooth flow in your writing.

This module covers the use of vertical lists in writing, including how to create and format lists for clarity and readability, and how to incorporate lists effectively into your writing.

In this module, you will learn how to use visual devices, such as graphs, charts, and tables, to supplement and enhance your written communication.

Quiz for Section 9
Step 9 - Edit for Clarity

This module covers strategies for editing your writing for clarity, including how to revise for conciseness and simplicity, and how to eliminate unnecessary words and phrases.

In this module, you will learn how to use concrete, specific words and phrases in your writing to create a more vivid and engaging experience for the reader.

This module covers the use of active verbs in writing, including how to create more dynamic and engaging sentences by using verbs that express action and convey meaning.

In this module, you will learn how to use verb tense consistently and effectively in your writing, including strategies for simplifying tense to enhance clarity and coherence.

This module covers the use of the subjunctive mood in writing and includes strategies for avoiding its use to enhance clarity and conciseness.

In this module, you will learn how to use standard English conventions, including grammar, punctuation, and style, to enhance the clarity and professionalism of your writing.

This module covers the proper placement of modifiers in writing, including how to avoid common mistakes and ensure that your writing is clear and easy to understand.

In this module, you will learn how to identify and replace ambiguous language in your writing, including strategies for increasing clarity and precision in your writing.

Quiz For Section 10
Step 10 - Edit for Economy

This module covers the first steps for editing your writing for economy, including how to identify and eliminate unnecessary words and phrases.

"In this module, you will learn the next steps for editing your writing for economy, including how to use shorter, more concise words and phrases, and how to revise for conciseness without sacrificing clarity.

This module includes the final steps for editing your writing for the economy, including how to revise for conciseness and clarity at the sentence and paragraph level, and how to edit for overall brevity and efficiency.

Quiz for Lesson 11
Step 11 - Edit for Readability

In this module, you will learn how to edit your writing for readability, including strategies for improving the layout, formatting, and design of your writing to make it more accessible and enjoyable for the reader.

Quiz for Lesson 12
Conclusion
Appendix B - Emails

This module includes tips for writing effective emails, including strategies for crafting clear and concise subject lines, opening and closing statements, and body text.

Quiz for Section 14
Appendix C - ESL

In this module, you will learn the first steps for writing articles in English as a second language, including how to choose a topic and create an outline.

This module covers the next steps for writing articles in English as a second language, including how to write the introduction, body, and conclusion of your article

In this module, you will learn advanced techniques for using articles in English as a Second Language (ESL) writing. Part 3 of the course covers a range of topics to help you master the use of articles in your writing.

In this module, you will learn about the importance of attitude and approach in teaching English as a second language. The course covers strategies for creating a positive learning environment and methods for effectively communicating with students.


In this module, you will learn about how to adapt your teaching approach to meet the needs of individual students. The course covers techniques for differentiating instruction and creating a personalized learning experience.

In this module, you will learn about the various verb tenses used in English. The course covers the present, past, and future tenses, as well as their corresponding verb forms and usage.

Quiz for Section 15
Last comments on this course and how to make it (and education) work for you.
Take-aways

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Adapts to meet the needs of individual students to create a personalized learning experience
Taught by Dan Graham, who is a seasoned author, editor, business executive and technical writer with many years of hands-on, in-the-trenches editing and writing work
Delivered by Starweaver, who is a recognized training provider for leading financial institutions and technology companies
Emphasizes the importance of analyzing audience and intended outcome before writing
Clear, actionable structure in 12 steps to refine writing and meet the intended purpose
Practical techniques for each step of the writing process, with exercises and thoughtful answers

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Business Writing & Technical Writing Immersion with these activities:
Identify a mentor who can provide guidance.
Connect with an experienced professional who can support your learning.
Browse courses on Mentorship
Show steps
  • Identify potential mentors.
  • Reach out to potential mentors and request a meeting.
  • Build a relationship with your mentor.
Read 'On Writing Well' by William Zinsser
This book provides practical advice on writing clearly and effectively, which is essential for technical writers and software documentation writers.
View Extraordinary Lives on Amazon
Show steps
  • Purchase a copy of the book.
  • Read the book thoroughly.
  • Take notes on the key concepts.
  • Apply the concepts to your own writing.
Review your knowledge of English grammar.
Ensure you have a solid understanding of English grammar to get the most out of this course.
Browse courses on English Grammar
Show steps
  • Review your notes from previous English grammar courses.
  • Take an online English grammar quiz.
  • Read an article about English grammar.
Ten other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 13 activities
Read 'Writing that Works' by Ken Macrorie.
This book provides valuable insights into the writing process.
Show steps
  • Read the book and take notes on the key points.
  • Write a summary of the book.
Write a summary of a technical article
This activity will help you practice summarizing technical information, which is a key skill for technical writers.
Browse courses on Technical Writing
Show steps
  • Find a technical article.
  • Read the article carefully.
  • Identify the main points.
  • Write a summary of the article.
Write short, focused paragraphs.
Practice writing clear, concise paragraphs.
Browse courses on Paragraph Writing
Show steps
  • Choose a topic and write a paragraph about it.
  • Have someone else review your paragraph and provide feedback.
  • Revise your paragraph based on the feedback.
Participate in a writing workshop.
Receive feedback on your writing and learn from others.
Browse courses on Peer Review
Show steps
  • Find a writing workshop to participate in.
  • Submit your writing to the workshop for feedback.
  • Attend the workshop and participate in the discussion.
Create a user guide for a software application
This activity will allow you to apply your skills in technical writing to create a valuable resource for users.
Browse courses on Technical Writing
Show steps
  • Identify the audience for the user guide.
  • Gather information about the software application.
  • Organize the information into a logical structure.
  • Write the user guide.
  • Test the user guide with users.
  • Revise the user guide based on feedback.
Develop a communication plan for a new product launch
This activity will help you develop your skills in creating communication plans that are essential for successful product launches.
Browse courses on Technical Writing
Show steps
  • Define the target audience.
  • Identify key messages.
  • Develop a communication strategy.
  • Create a timeline.
  • Identify resources.
Write a blog post about a topic related to the course.
Demonstrate your understanding of the course material.
Browse courses on Blogging
Show steps
  • Choose a topic related to the course.
  • Research the topic and write an outline for your blog post.
  • Write the blog post.
  • Publish the blog post.
Participate in a technical writing workshop
Workshops provide an opportunity to learn from experienced professionals and improve your technical writing skills.
Browse courses on Technical Writing
Show steps
  • Find a workshop to attend.
  • Register for the workshop.
  • Attend the workshop.
  • Participate in the activities.
  • Apply what you learn to your own work.
Mentor a junior technical writer
Mentoring others allows you to share your knowledge and skills, while also reflecting on your own learning journey.
Browse courses on Technical Writing
Show steps
  • Find a junior technical writer to mentor.
  • Meet with your mentee regularly.
  • Provide guidance and support.
  • Help your mentee develop their skills.
Compile a list of resources for technical writers
Creating a compilation of resources will help you organize and synthesize your knowledge of technical writing tools and resources.
Browse courses on Technical Writing
Show steps
  • Identify useful resources for technical writers.
  • Organize the resources into a logical structure.
  • Create a document or website that compiles the resources.
  • Share the compilation with other technical writers.

Career center

Learners who complete Business Writing & Technical Writing Immersion will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Proposal Writer
Proposal Writers create and manage proposals for businesses and organizations. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Proposal Writer because it teaches how to write clear, concise, and effective proposals that persuade the client to purchase the product or service.
Editor
Editors review, edit, and manage written content for a variety of purposes. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become an Editor because it teaches how to edit and manage written content to ensure that it is clear, concise, and effective.
Learning and Development Manager
Learning and Development Managers oversee the learning and development programs for an organization. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Learning and Development Manager because it teaches how to design and manage learning and development programs that are effective and engaging.
Copywriter
Copywriters create and manage written content for advertising and marketing campaigns. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Copywriter because it teaches how to write clear, concise, and effective copy that persuades the target audience to take action.
Training Specialist
Training Specialists create and manage training programs for a variety of audiences. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Training Specialist because it teaches how to design and develop training programs that are effective and engaging.
Content Writer
Content Writers create and manage written content for websites, blogs, social media, and other marketing materials. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Content Writer because it teaches how to write clear, concise, and effective content that meets the needs of the target audience.
Curriculum Developer
Curriculum Developers create and manage curriculum for a variety of educational institutions. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Curriculum Developer because it teaches how to design and develop curriculum that is effective and engaging.
Grant Writer
Grant Writers create and manage grant proposals for non-profit organizations and government agencies. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Grant Writer because it teaches how to write clear, concise, and effective grant proposals that persuade the funding agency to provide funding.
Instructional Designer
Instructional Designers create and manage learning materials for a variety of audiences. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become an Instructional Designer because it teaches how to design and develop learning materials that are effective and engaging.
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create and maintain technical documentation, such as user manuals, software documentation, and training materials. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Technical Writer because it teaches how to write clear, concise, and effective technical documentation that is easy to understand for the intended audience.
Marketing Manager
Marketing Managers oversee the marketing department for an organization. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Marketing Manager because it teaches how to manage the marketing department and its functions, including content creation and management.
Communications Manager
Communications Managers oversee the communications department for an organization. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Communications Manager because it teaches how to manage the communications department and its functions, including content creation and management.
Public relations manager
Public Relations Managers oversee the public relations department for an organization. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Public Relations Manager because it teaches how to manage the public relations department and its functions, including content creation and management.
Social Media Manager
Social Media Managers oversee the social media accounts for an organization. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Social Media Manager because it teaches how to manage social media accounts and create and manage content for social media.
Human Resources Manager
Human Resources Managers oversee the human resources department for an organization. This course may be useful for someone who wants to become a Human Resources Manager because it teaches how to manage the human resources department and its functions, including learning and development.

Reading list

We've selected 12 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Business Writing & Technical Writing Immersion.
This classic guide to writing style and usage valuable resource for anyone who wants to improve their writing skills. It covers a wide range of topics, from grammar and punctuation to clarity and conciseness, and is written in a clear and engaging style.
This popular guide to writing nonfiction is full of practical advice on how to write clearly, concisely, and effectively. Zinsser covers a wide range of topics, from choosing the right words to organizing your thoughts, and his book is full of helpful examples and exercises.
This entertaining and informative book explores the science of style. Pinker argues that good writing is not simply a matter of following rules, but of understanding how the human mind processes language. He covers a wide range of topics, from the evolution of language to the psychology of reading.
This inspiring and practical guide to writing is full of down-to-earth advice from one of America's most beloved authors. Lamott covers a wide range of topics, from overcoming writer's block to finding your voice, and her book is full of humor and wisdom.
This practical guide to writing for computer science valuable resource for anyone who wants to write clear, concise, and effective technical documents in the field of computer science. Zobel covers a wide range of topics, from writing research papers to giving presentations, and his book is full of helpful tips and exercises.
This comprehensive guide to style and usage is the standard reference for writers in many fields, including journalism, academia, and publishing. It covers a wide range of topics, from grammar and punctuation to citation and formatting, and is an essential resource for anyone who wants to write professionally.
This massive dictionary is the definitive reference for the English language. It contains over 600,000 words and phrases, and is an essential resource for anyone who wants to write clearly and accurately.
This popular dictionary good choice for students and general readers. It contains over 200,000 words and phrases, and good resource for finding definitions, synonyms, and antonyms.
This comprehensive dictionary good choice for students and general readers. It contains over 250,000 words and phrases, and good resource for finding definitions, synonyms, and antonyms.
This popular dictionary good choice for students and general readers. It contains over 300,000 words and phrases, and good resource for finding definitions, synonyms, and antonyms.
This comprehensive dictionary good choice for students and general readers. It contains over 200,000 words and phrases, and good resource for finding definitions, synonyms, and antonyms.
This dictionary is designed for intermediate learners of English. It contains over 140,000 words and phrases, and good resource for finding definitions, synonyms, and antonyms.

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