Writing can sometimes be messy, frustrating, and hard. But you can make your working life a little easier by editing with these principles in mind. It’s simple: Whether you’re writing a two-line email or a 10-page report, anticipate the needs of your readers. Remember the four Cs:

Be clear
Concise
Considerate
Correct

Adopt the “you attitude.”

This means looking at a topic from the point of view of your readers, emphasizing what they want or need to know.

Example: I have requested that your order be sent out today.
Revision: You will receive your order by Wednesday.

Focus on the real subject.

Don’t bury a key word by dropping it into a phrase following a weak subject.

Example: The implementation of the new marketing campaign will begin on June 1.
Revision: The new marketing campaign will begin on June 1…