At times, it helps to think of writing as carpentry. That way, writers and editors can work from a plan and use tools stored on their wo...

At times, it helps to think of writing as carpentry. That way, writers and editors can work from a plan and use tools
stored on their workbench. You can borrow a writing tool at any time. And here's a secret: Unlike hammers, chisels,
and rakes, writing tools never have to be returned. They can be cleaned, sharpened, and passed on.
stored on their workbench. You can borrow a writing tool at any time. And here's a secret: Unlike hammers, chisels,
and rakes, writing tools never have to be returned. They can be cleaned, sharpened, and passed on.
As you study and discuss these, please remember:
· These are tools and not rules. They work outside the realm of right and wrong, and inside the world of
cause and effect. You will find many examples of good writing that seem to "violate" the general advice described here.
· It will not help to apply these tools at once, just as aspiring golfers swing and miss if they try to
remember the 30 or so different elements of an effective golf swing.
· You will become handy with these tools over time. You will begin to recognize their use in the stories
you read. You will see chances to apply them when you revise your own work. Eventually, they will become
part of your flow, natural and automatic.
· You are already using many of these tools without knowing it. It is impossible to speak, write, or read
· These are tools and not rules. They work outside the realm of right and wrong, and inside the world of
cause and effect. You will find many examples of good writing that seem to "violate" the general advice described here.
· It will not help to apply these tools at once, just as aspiring golfers swing and miss if they try to
remember the 30 or so different elements of an effective golf swing.
· You will become handy with these tools over time. You will begin to recognize their use in the stories
you read. You will see chances to apply them when you revise your own work. Eventually, they will become
part of your flow, natural and automatic.
· You are already using many of these tools without knowing it. It is impossible to speak, write, or read