The Plain English Approach to Business Writing

by Edward P. Bailey

Memos, letters, reports--for a business world supposedly going paperless, we're writing quite a lot these days. Nonetheless, argues business communications professor Edward P. Bailey Jr., reliance on industry terminology and "business-ese" is ruining many of these attempts to exchange information. His practical guide to reversing that unfortunate situation, The Plain English Approach to Business Writing, shows how to "write as you would talk," which he contends is actually easier than penning convoluted sentences filled with obscure jargon. A basic overview of organization and layout (including typefaces, headings, and graphics) is provided along with advice on proper constructions and style.

Genres: Writing, Communication, Business

Paperback

First published September 13, 1990

About the author

Dr. Edward P. Bailey Jr. is a retired writing and speaking teacher. Before his retirement, he was a Professor of Business Communication at Marymount University.

Reviews

[J.Aleksandr Wootton]

Short & effective. Should be required reading for anyone who wants a job (or to volunteer), unless that job entails never communicating in writing by any means (email, text).

At 25 years old, its examples could use updating but its advice remains spot-on.

[Sheri Trapp-Cordova]

Given the size of the volume (slim) it is hard to think of a more concise book on the topic of writing for the workplace. It's a good starting place.