Writing and Speaking for Technical Professionals By Martin S. Roden and Teressa E.

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Transcript Writing and Speaking for Technical Professionals By Martin S. Roden and Teressa E.

Slide 1

Writing and Speaking for Technical Professionals
By Martin S. Roden and Teressa E. Murphy

Importance of good communication:

Importance of good communication
If you are the only one who knows about
your work, you may as well not have done
it!
 Effective Writing and Speaking are keys to
success.


◦ “People who cannot write and communicate
clearly will not be hired, and if already
working, are unlikely to last long enough to be
considered for promotion. “ [From College
Board]

Frustrations
Terrible Writing
• Poor English usage
• Email that rambles on
• Introduction that does not
motivate
• Conclusion that leaves things
up in the air

Frustrations
Terrible Speaking







Poor voice qualities - volume
Poor English usage
Introduction that does not motivate
Conclusion that leaves things up in the air
Poor handling of questions
Rambling phone messages

Characteristics of good writing
Clear and concise
 Incorporate good grammar, punctuation
and spelling.
 Appropriate to the audience.


Know your audience

Rules for Effective Writing


Plan the Project

Rules for Effective Writing
Have something important to say
 Research the topic thoroughly


Focus on a Topic

Sections of a paper
Introduction
 Body
 Conclusion


Have a good
conclusion!!

Writing a Document
Plan
 Outline
 First Draft
 Second Draft
 Final Document


Second Draft
Make sure all components are present.
Add example as needed, and make sure
conclusion and references appear.
 Make sure each sentence is complete Noun,Verb, Object
 Avoid complex sentences that combine
too many ideas.


Second Draft (Continued)
Make sure words that refer to earlier
items (e.g., “this”, “it”) are very clear and
that there is only one possible
interpretation.
 Be Gender Neutral (avoid “he”)
 SPELL CHECK!!!!!!!
 Add figures and equations


Final Copy
Reread each sentence to make sure it is
clear and uses good sentence structure.
 Double check to make sure each
sentence is, in fact, a complete sentence.


Avoid Overly Wordy Sentences


“It was my assigned task to walk over to
the light switch and effect an action to
extinguish the room lights.”
◦ “I was asked to turn off the lights.”



“The flashing green light is indicative of
the vehicle being ready to function.”
◦ “If the green light is flashing, the car can be
driven.”

Be precise and clear

A good speech leads to success

Practice your speech

If you have any comments or
suggestions, please contact me at:
[email protected]


Slide 2

Writing and Speaking for Technical Professionals
By Martin S. Roden and Teressa E. Murphy

Importance of good communication:

Importance of good communication
If you are the only one who knows about
your work, you may as well not have done
it!
 Effective Writing and Speaking are keys to
success.


◦ “People who cannot write and communicate
clearly will not be hired, and if already
working, are unlikely to last long enough to be
considered for promotion. “ [From College
Board]

Frustrations
Terrible Writing
• Poor English usage
• Email that rambles on
• Introduction that does not
motivate
• Conclusion that leaves things
up in the air

Frustrations
Terrible Speaking







Poor voice qualities - volume
Poor English usage
Introduction that does not motivate
Conclusion that leaves things up in the air
Poor handling of questions
Rambling phone messages

Characteristics of good writing
Clear and concise
 Incorporate good grammar, punctuation
and spelling.
 Appropriate to the audience.


Know your audience

Rules for Effective Writing


Plan the Project

Rules for Effective Writing
Have something important to say
 Research the topic thoroughly


Focus on a Topic

Sections of a paper
Introduction
 Body
 Conclusion


Have a good
conclusion!!

Writing a Document
Plan
 Outline
 First Draft
 Second Draft
 Final Document


Second Draft
Make sure all components are present.
Add example as needed, and make sure
conclusion and references appear.
 Make sure each sentence is complete Noun,Verb, Object
 Avoid complex sentences that combine
too many ideas.


Second Draft (Continued)
Make sure words that refer to earlier
items (e.g., “this”, “it”) are very clear and
that there is only one possible
interpretation.
 Be Gender Neutral (avoid “he”)
 SPELL CHECK!!!!!!!
 Add figures and equations


Final Copy
Reread each sentence to make sure it is
clear and uses good sentence structure.
 Double check to make sure each
sentence is, in fact, a complete sentence.


Avoid Overly Wordy Sentences


“It was my assigned task to walk over to
the light switch and effect an action to
extinguish the room lights.”
◦ “I was asked to turn off the lights.”



“The flashing green light is indicative of
the vehicle being ready to function.”
◦ “If the green light is flashing, the car can be
driven.”

Be precise and clear

A good speech leads to success

Practice your speech

If you have any comments or
suggestions, please contact me at:
[email protected]


Slide 3

Writing and Speaking for Technical Professionals
By Martin S. Roden and Teressa E. Murphy

Importance of good communication:

Importance of good communication
If you are the only one who knows about
your work, you may as well not have done
it!
 Effective Writing and Speaking are keys to
success.


◦ “People who cannot write and communicate
clearly will not be hired, and if already
working, are unlikely to last long enough to be
considered for promotion. “ [From College
Board]

Frustrations
Terrible Writing
• Poor English usage
• Email that rambles on
• Introduction that does not
motivate
• Conclusion that leaves things
up in the air

Frustrations
Terrible Speaking







Poor voice qualities - volume
Poor English usage
Introduction that does not motivate
Conclusion that leaves things up in the air
Poor handling of questions
Rambling phone messages

Characteristics of good writing
Clear and concise
 Incorporate good grammar, punctuation
and spelling.
 Appropriate to the audience.


Know your audience

Rules for Effective Writing


Plan the Project

Rules for Effective Writing
Have something important to say
 Research the topic thoroughly


Focus on a Topic

Sections of a paper
Introduction
 Body
 Conclusion


Have a good
conclusion!!

Writing a Document
Plan
 Outline
 First Draft
 Second Draft
 Final Document


Second Draft
Make sure all components are present.
Add example as needed, and make sure
conclusion and references appear.
 Make sure each sentence is complete Noun,Verb, Object
 Avoid complex sentences that combine
too many ideas.


Second Draft (Continued)
Make sure words that refer to earlier
items (e.g., “this”, “it”) are very clear and
that there is only one possible
interpretation.
 Be Gender Neutral (avoid “he”)
 SPELL CHECK!!!!!!!
 Add figures and equations


Final Copy
Reread each sentence to make sure it is
clear and uses good sentence structure.
 Double check to make sure each
sentence is, in fact, a complete sentence.


Avoid Overly Wordy Sentences


“It was my assigned task to walk over to
the light switch and effect an action to
extinguish the room lights.”
◦ “I was asked to turn off the lights.”



“The flashing green light is indicative of
the vehicle being ready to function.”
◦ “If the green light is flashing, the car can be
driven.”

Be precise and clear

A good speech leads to success

Practice your speech

If you have any comments or
suggestions, please contact me at:
[email protected]


Slide 4

Writing and Speaking for Technical Professionals
By Martin S. Roden and Teressa E. Murphy

Importance of good communication:

Importance of good communication
If you are the only one who knows about
your work, you may as well not have done
it!
 Effective Writing and Speaking are keys to
success.


◦ “People who cannot write and communicate
clearly will not be hired, and if already
working, are unlikely to last long enough to be
considered for promotion. “ [From College
Board]

Frustrations
Terrible Writing
• Poor English usage
• Email that rambles on
• Introduction that does not
motivate
• Conclusion that leaves things
up in the air

Frustrations
Terrible Speaking







Poor voice qualities - volume
Poor English usage
Introduction that does not motivate
Conclusion that leaves things up in the air
Poor handling of questions
Rambling phone messages

Characteristics of good writing
Clear and concise
 Incorporate good grammar, punctuation
and spelling.
 Appropriate to the audience.


Know your audience

Rules for Effective Writing


Plan the Project

Rules for Effective Writing
Have something important to say
 Research the topic thoroughly


Focus on a Topic

Sections of a paper
Introduction
 Body
 Conclusion


Have a good
conclusion!!

Writing a Document
Plan
 Outline
 First Draft
 Second Draft
 Final Document


Second Draft
Make sure all components are present.
Add example as needed, and make sure
conclusion and references appear.
 Make sure each sentence is complete Noun,Verb, Object
 Avoid complex sentences that combine
too many ideas.


Second Draft (Continued)
Make sure words that refer to earlier
items (e.g., “this”, “it”) are very clear and
that there is only one possible
interpretation.
 Be Gender Neutral (avoid “he”)
 SPELL CHECK!!!!!!!
 Add figures and equations


Final Copy
Reread each sentence to make sure it is
clear and uses good sentence structure.
 Double check to make sure each
sentence is, in fact, a complete sentence.


Avoid Overly Wordy Sentences


“It was my assigned task to walk over to
the light switch and effect an action to
extinguish the room lights.”
◦ “I was asked to turn off the lights.”



“The flashing green light is indicative of
the vehicle being ready to function.”
◦ “If the green light is flashing, the car can be
driven.”

Be precise and clear

A good speech leads to success

Practice your speech

If you have any comments or
suggestions, please contact me at:
[email protected]


Slide 5

Writing and Speaking for Technical Professionals
By Martin S. Roden and Teressa E. Murphy

Importance of good communication:

Importance of good communication
If you are the only one who knows about
your work, you may as well not have done
it!
 Effective Writing and Speaking are keys to
success.


◦ “People who cannot write and communicate
clearly will not be hired, and if already
working, are unlikely to last long enough to be
considered for promotion. “ [From College
Board]

Frustrations
Terrible Writing
• Poor English usage
• Email that rambles on
• Introduction that does not
motivate
• Conclusion that leaves things
up in the air

Frustrations
Terrible Speaking







Poor voice qualities - volume
Poor English usage
Introduction that does not motivate
Conclusion that leaves things up in the air
Poor handling of questions
Rambling phone messages

Characteristics of good writing
Clear and concise
 Incorporate good grammar, punctuation
and spelling.
 Appropriate to the audience.


Know your audience

Rules for Effective Writing


Plan the Project

Rules for Effective Writing
Have something important to say
 Research the topic thoroughly


Focus on a Topic

Sections of a paper
Introduction
 Body
 Conclusion


Have a good
conclusion!!

Writing a Document
Plan
 Outline
 First Draft
 Second Draft
 Final Document


Second Draft
Make sure all components are present.
Add example as needed, and make sure
conclusion and references appear.
 Make sure each sentence is complete Noun,Verb, Object
 Avoid complex sentences that combine
too many ideas.


Second Draft (Continued)
Make sure words that refer to earlier
items (e.g., “this”, “it”) are very clear and
that there is only one possible
interpretation.
 Be Gender Neutral (avoid “he”)
 SPELL CHECK!!!!!!!
 Add figures and equations


Final Copy
Reread each sentence to make sure it is
clear and uses good sentence structure.
 Double check to make sure each
sentence is, in fact, a complete sentence.


Avoid Overly Wordy Sentences


“It was my assigned task to walk over to
the light switch and effect an action to
extinguish the room lights.”
◦ “I was asked to turn off the lights.”



“The flashing green light is indicative of
the vehicle being ready to function.”
◦ “If the green light is flashing, the car can be
driven.”

Be precise and clear

A good speech leads to success

Practice your speech

If you have any comments or
suggestions, please contact me at:
[email protected]


Slide 6

Writing and Speaking for Technical Professionals
By Martin S. Roden and Teressa E. Murphy

Importance of good communication:

Importance of good communication
If you are the only one who knows about
your work, you may as well not have done
it!
 Effective Writing and Speaking are keys to
success.


◦ “People who cannot write and communicate
clearly will not be hired, and if already
working, are unlikely to last long enough to be
considered for promotion. “ [From College
Board]

Frustrations
Terrible Writing
• Poor English usage
• Email that rambles on
• Introduction that does not
motivate
• Conclusion that leaves things
up in the air

Frustrations
Terrible Speaking







Poor voice qualities - volume
Poor English usage
Introduction that does not motivate
Conclusion that leaves things up in the air
Poor handling of questions
Rambling phone messages

Characteristics of good writing
Clear and concise
 Incorporate good grammar, punctuation
and spelling.
 Appropriate to the audience.


Know your audience

Rules for Effective Writing


Plan the Project

Rules for Effective Writing
Have something important to say
 Research the topic thoroughly


Focus on a Topic

Sections of a paper
Introduction
 Body
 Conclusion


Have a good
conclusion!!

Writing a Document
Plan
 Outline
 First Draft
 Second Draft
 Final Document


Second Draft
Make sure all components are present.
Add example as needed, and make sure
conclusion and references appear.
 Make sure each sentence is complete Noun,Verb, Object
 Avoid complex sentences that combine
too many ideas.


Second Draft (Continued)
Make sure words that refer to earlier
items (e.g., “this”, “it”) are very clear and
that there is only one possible
interpretation.
 Be Gender Neutral (avoid “he”)
 SPELL CHECK!!!!!!!
 Add figures and equations


Final Copy
Reread each sentence to make sure it is
clear and uses good sentence structure.
 Double check to make sure each
sentence is, in fact, a complete sentence.


Avoid Overly Wordy Sentences


“It was my assigned task to walk over to
the light switch and effect an action to
extinguish the room lights.”
◦ “I was asked to turn off the lights.”



“The flashing green light is indicative of
the vehicle being ready to function.”
◦ “If the green light is flashing, the car can be
driven.”

Be precise and clear

A good speech leads to success

Practice your speech

If you have any comments or
suggestions, please contact me at:
[email protected]


Slide 7

Writing and Speaking for Technical Professionals
By Martin S. Roden and Teressa E. Murphy

Importance of good communication:

Importance of good communication
If you are the only one who knows about
your work, you may as well not have done
it!
 Effective Writing and Speaking are keys to
success.


◦ “People who cannot write and communicate
clearly will not be hired, and if already
working, are unlikely to last long enough to be
considered for promotion. “ [From College
Board]

Frustrations
Terrible Writing
• Poor English usage
• Email that rambles on
• Introduction that does not
motivate
• Conclusion that leaves things
up in the air

Frustrations
Terrible Speaking







Poor voice qualities - volume
Poor English usage
Introduction that does not motivate
Conclusion that leaves things up in the air
Poor handling of questions
Rambling phone messages

Characteristics of good writing
Clear and concise
 Incorporate good grammar, punctuation
and spelling.
 Appropriate to the audience.


Know your audience

Rules for Effective Writing


Plan the Project

Rules for Effective Writing
Have something important to say
 Research the topic thoroughly


Focus on a Topic

Sections of a paper
Introduction
 Body
 Conclusion


Have a good
conclusion!!

Writing a Document
Plan
 Outline
 First Draft
 Second Draft
 Final Document


Second Draft
Make sure all components are present.
Add example as needed, and make sure
conclusion and references appear.
 Make sure each sentence is complete Noun,Verb, Object
 Avoid complex sentences that combine
too many ideas.


Second Draft (Continued)
Make sure words that refer to earlier
items (e.g., “this”, “it”) are very clear and
that there is only one possible
interpretation.
 Be Gender Neutral (avoid “he”)
 SPELL CHECK!!!!!!!
 Add figures and equations


Final Copy
Reread each sentence to make sure it is
clear and uses good sentence structure.
 Double check to make sure each
sentence is, in fact, a complete sentence.


Avoid Overly Wordy Sentences


“It was my assigned task to walk over to
the light switch and effect an action to
extinguish the room lights.”
◦ “I was asked to turn off the lights.”



“The flashing green light is indicative of
the vehicle being ready to function.”
◦ “If the green light is flashing, the car can be
driven.”

Be precise and clear

A good speech leads to success

Practice your speech

If you have any comments or
suggestions, please contact me at:
[email protected]


Slide 8

Writing and Speaking for Technical Professionals
By Martin S. Roden and Teressa E. Murphy

Importance of good communication:

Importance of good communication
If you are the only one who knows about
your work, you may as well not have done
it!
 Effective Writing and Speaking are keys to
success.


◦ “People who cannot write and communicate
clearly will not be hired, and if already
working, are unlikely to last long enough to be
considered for promotion. “ [From College
Board]

Frustrations
Terrible Writing
• Poor English usage
• Email that rambles on
• Introduction that does not
motivate
• Conclusion that leaves things
up in the air

Frustrations
Terrible Speaking







Poor voice qualities - volume
Poor English usage
Introduction that does not motivate
Conclusion that leaves things up in the air
Poor handling of questions
Rambling phone messages

Characteristics of good writing
Clear and concise
 Incorporate good grammar, punctuation
and spelling.
 Appropriate to the audience.


Know your audience

Rules for Effective Writing


Plan the Project

Rules for Effective Writing
Have something important to say
 Research the topic thoroughly


Focus on a Topic

Sections of a paper
Introduction
 Body
 Conclusion


Have a good
conclusion!!

Writing a Document
Plan
 Outline
 First Draft
 Second Draft
 Final Document


Second Draft
Make sure all components are present.
Add example as needed, and make sure
conclusion and references appear.
 Make sure each sentence is complete Noun,Verb, Object
 Avoid complex sentences that combine
too many ideas.


Second Draft (Continued)
Make sure words that refer to earlier
items (e.g., “this”, “it”) are very clear and
that there is only one possible
interpretation.
 Be Gender Neutral (avoid “he”)
 SPELL CHECK!!!!!!!
 Add figures and equations


Final Copy
Reread each sentence to make sure it is
clear and uses good sentence structure.
 Double check to make sure each
sentence is, in fact, a complete sentence.


Avoid Overly Wordy Sentences


“It was my assigned task to walk over to
the light switch and effect an action to
extinguish the room lights.”
◦ “I was asked to turn off the lights.”



“The flashing green light is indicative of
the vehicle being ready to function.”
◦ “If the green light is flashing, the car can be
driven.”

Be precise and clear

A good speech leads to success

Practice your speech

If you have any comments or
suggestions, please contact me at:
[email protected]


Slide 9

Writing and Speaking for Technical Professionals
By Martin S. Roden and Teressa E. Murphy

Importance of good communication:

Importance of good communication
If you are the only one who knows about
your work, you may as well not have done
it!
 Effective Writing and Speaking are keys to
success.


◦ “People who cannot write and communicate
clearly will not be hired, and if already
working, are unlikely to last long enough to be
considered for promotion. “ [From College
Board]

Frustrations
Terrible Writing
• Poor English usage
• Email that rambles on
• Introduction that does not
motivate
• Conclusion that leaves things
up in the air

Frustrations
Terrible Speaking







Poor voice qualities - volume
Poor English usage
Introduction that does not motivate
Conclusion that leaves things up in the air
Poor handling of questions
Rambling phone messages

Characteristics of good writing
Clear and concise
 Incorporate good grammar, punctuation
and spelling.
 Appropriate to the audience.


Know your audience

Rules for Effective Writing


Plan the Project

Rules for Effective Writing
Have something important to say
 Research the topic thoroughly


Focus on a Topic

Sections of a paper
Introduction
 Body
 Conclusion


Have a good
conclusion!!

Writing a Document
Plan
 Outline
 First Draft
 Second Draft
 Final Document


Second Draft
Make sure all components are present.
Add example as needed, and make sure
conclusion and references appear.
 Make sure each sentence is complete Noun,Verb, Object
 Avoid complex sentences that combine
too many ideas.


Second Draft (Continued)
Make sure words that refer to earlier
items (e.g., “this”, “it”) are very clear and
that there is only one possible
interpretation.
 Be Gender Neutral (avoid “he”)
 SPELL CHECK!!!!!!!
 Add figures and equations


Final Copy
Reread each sentence to make sure it is
clear and uses good sentence structure.
 Double check to make sure each
sentence is, in fact, a complete sentence.


Avoid Overly Wordy Sentences


“It was my assigned task to walk over to
the light switch and effect an action to
extinguish the room lights.”
◦ “I was asked to turn off the lights.”



“The flashing green light is indicative of
the vehicle being ready to function.”
◦ “If the green light is flashing, the car can be
driven.”

Be precise and clear

A good speech leads to success

Practice your speech

If you have any comments or
suggestions, please contact me at:
[email protected]


Slide 10

Writing and Speaking for Technical Professionals
By Martin S. Roden and Teressa E. Murphy

Importance of good communication:

Importance of good communication
If you are the only one who knows about
your work, you may as well not have done
it!
 Effective Writing and Speaking are keys to
success.


◦ “People who cannot write and communicate
clearly will not be hired, and if already
working, are unlikely to last long enough to be
considered for promotion. “ [From College
Board]

Frustrations
Terrible Writing
• Poor English usage
• Email that rambles on
• Introduction that does not
motivate
• Conclusion that leaves things
up in the air

Frustrations
Terrible Speaking







Poor voice qualities - volume
Poor English usage
Introduction that does not motivate
Conclusion that leaves things up in the air
Poor handling of questions
Rambling phone messages

Characteristics of good writing
Clear and concise
 Incorporate good grammar, punctuation
and spelling.
 Appropriate to the audience.


Know your audience

Rules for Effective Writing


Plan the Project

Rules for Effective Writing
Have something important to say
 Research the topic thoroughly


Focus on a Topic

Sections of a paper
Introduction
 Body
 Conclusion


Have a good
conclusion!!

Writing a Document
Plan
 Outline
 First Draft
 Second Draft
 Final Document


Second Draft
Make sure all components are present.
Add example as needed, and make sure
conclusion and references appear.
 Make sure each sentence is complete Noun,Verb, Object
 Avoid complex sentences that combine
too many ideas.


Second Draft (Continued)
Make sure words that refer to earlier
items (e.g., “this”, “it”) are very clear and
that there is only one possible
interpretation.
 Be Gender Neutral (avoid “he”)
 SPELL CHECK!!!!!!!
 Add figures and equations


Final Copy
Reread each sentence to make sure it is
clear and uses good sentence structure.
 Double check to make sure each
sentence is, in fact, a complete sentence.


Avoid Overly Wordy Sentences


“It was my assigned task to walk over to
the light switch and effect an action to
extinguish the room lights.”
◦ “I was asked to turn off the lights.”



“The flashing green light is indicative of
the vehicle being ready to function.”
◦ “If the green light is flashing, the car can be
driven.”

Be precise and clear

A good speech leads to success

Practice your speech

If you have any comments or
suggestions, please contact me at:
[email protected]


Slide 11

Writing and Speaking for Technical Professionals
By Martin S. Roden and Teressa E. Murphy

Importance of good communication:

Importance of good communication
If you are the only one who knows about
your work, you may as well not have done
it!
 Effective Writing and Speaking are keys to
success.


◦ “People who cannot write and communicate
clearly will not be hired, and if already
working, are unlikely to last long enough to be
considered for promotion. “ [From College
Board]

Frustrations
Terrible Writing
• Poor English usage
• Email that rambles on
• Introduction that does not
motivate
• Conclusion that leaves things
up in the air

Frustrations
Terrible Speaking







Poor voice qualities - volume
Poor English usage
Introduction that does not motivate
Conclusion that leaves things up in the air
Poor handling of questions
Rambling phone messages

Characteristics of good writing
Clear and concise
 Incorporate good grammar, punctuation
and spelling.
 Appropriate to the audience.


Know your audience

Rules for Effective Writing


Plan the Project

Rules for Effective Writing
Have something important to say
 Research the topic thoroughly


Focus on a Topic

Sections of a paper
Introduction
 Body
 Conclusion


Have a good
conclusion!!

Writing a Document
Plan
 Outline
 First Draft
 Second Draft
 Final Document


Second Draft
Make sure all components are present.
Add example as needed, and make sure
conclusion and references appear.
 Make sure each sentence is complete Noun,Verb, Object
 Avoid complex sentences that combine
too many ideas.


Second Draft (Continued)
Make sure words that refer to earlier
items (e.g., “this”, “it”) are very clear and
that there is only one possible
interpretation.
 Be Gender Neutral (avoid “he”)
 SPELL CHECK!!!!!!!
 Add figures and equations


Final Copy
Reread each sentence to make sure it is
clear and uses good sentence structure.
 Double check to make sure each
sentence is, in fact, a complete sentence.


Avoid Overly Wordy Sentences


“It was my assigned task to walk over to
the light switch and effect an action to
extinguish the room lights.”
◦ “I was asked to turn off the lights.”



“The flashing green light is indicative of
the vehicle being ready to function.”
◦ “If the green light is flashing, the car can be
driven.”

Be precise and clear

A good speech leads to success

Practice your speech

If you have any comments or
suggestions, please contact me at:
[email protected]


Slide 12

Writing and Speaking for Technical Professionals
By Martin S. Roden and Teressa E. Murphy

Importance of good communication:

Importance of good communication
If you are the only one who knows about
your work, you may as well not have done
it!
 Effective Writing and Speaking are keys to
success.


◦ “People who cannot write and communicate
clearly will not be hired, and if already
working, are unlikely to last long enough to be
considered for promotion. “ [From College
Board]

Frustrations
Terrible Writing
• Poor English usage
• Email that rambles on
• Introduction that does not
motivate
• Conclusion that leaves things
up in the air

Frustrations
Terrible Speaking







Poor voice qualities - volume
Poor English usage
Introduction that does not motivate
Conclusion that leaves things up in the air
Poor handling of questions
Rambling phone messages

Characteristics of good writing
Clear and concise
 Incorporate good grammar, punctuation
and spelling.
 Appropriate to the audience.


Know your audience

Rules for Effective Writing


Plan the Project

Rules for Effective Writing
Have something important to say
 Research the topic thoroughly


Focus on a Topic

Sections of a paper
Introduction
 Body
 Conclusion


Have a good
conclusion!!

Writing a Document
Plan
 Outline
 First Draft
 Second Draft
 Final Document


Second Draft
Make sure all components are present.
Add example as needed, and make sure
conclusion and references appear.
 Make sure each sentence is complete Noun,Verb, Object
 Avoid complex sentences that combine
too many ideas.


Second Draft (Continued)
Make sure words that refer to earlier
items (e.g., “this”, “it”) are very clear and
that there is only one possible
interpretation.
 Be Gender Neutral (avoid “he”)
 SPELL CHECK!!!!!!!
 Add figures and equations


Final Copy
Reread each sentence to make sure it is
clear and uses good sentence structure.
 Double check to make sure each
sentence is, in fact, a complete sentence.


Avoid Overly Wordy Sentences


“It was my assigned task to walk over to
the light switch and effect an action to
extinguish the room lights.”
◦ “I was asked to turn off the lights.”



“The flashing green light is indicative of
the vehicle being ready to function.”
◦ “If the green light is flashing, the car can be
driven.”

Be precise and clear

A good speech leads to success

Practice your speech

If you have any comments or
suggestions, please contact me at:
[email protected]


Slide 13

Writing and Speaking for Technical Professionals
By Martin S. Roden and Teressa E. Murphy

Importance of good communication:

Importance of good communication
If you are the only one who knows about
your work, you may as well not have done
it!
 Effective Writing and Speaking are keys to
success.


◦ “People who cannot write and communicate
clearly will not be hired, and if already
working, are unlikely to last long enough to be
considered for promotion. “ [From College
Board]

Frustrations
Terrible Writing
• Poor English usage
• Email that rambles on
• Introduction that does not
motivate
• Conclusion that leaves things
up in the air

Frustrations
Terrible Speaking







Poor voice qualities - volume
Poor English usage
Introduction that does not motivate
Conclusion that leaves things up in the air
Poor handling of questions
Rambling phone messages

Characteristics of good writing
Clear and concise
 Incorporate good grammar, punctuation
and spelling.
 Appropriate to the audience.


Know your audience

Rules for Effective Writing


Plan the Project

Rules for Effective Writing
Have something important to say
 Research the topic thoroughly


Focus on a Topic

Sections of a paper
Introduction
 Body
 Conclusion


Have a good
conclusion!!

Writing a Document
Plan
 Outline
 First Draft
 Second Draft
 Final Document


Second Draft
Make sure all components are present.
Add example as needed, and make sure
conclusion and references appear.
 Make sure each sentence is complete Noun,Verb, Object
 Avoid complex sentences that combine
too many ideas.


Second Draft (Continued)
Make sure words that refer to earlier
items (e.g., “this”, “it”) are very clear and
that there is only one possible
interpretation.
 Be Gender Neutral (avoid “he”)
 SPELL CHECK!!!!!!!
 Add figures and equations


Final Copy
Reread each sentence to make sure it is
clear and uses good sentence structure.
 Double check to make sure each
sentence is, in fact, a complete sentence.


Avoid Overly Wordy Sentences


“It was my assigned task to walk over to
the light switch and effect an action to
extinguish the room lights.”
◦ “I was asked to turn off the lights.”



“The flashing green light is indicative of
the vehicle being ready to function.”
◦ “If the green light is flashing, the car can be
driven.”

Be precise and clear

A good speech leads to success

Practice your speech

If you have any comments or
suggestions, please contact me at:
[email protected]


Slide 14

Writing and Speaking for Technical Professionals
By Martin S. Roden and Teressa E. Murphy

Importance of good communication:

Importance of good communication
If you are the only one who knows about
your work, you may as well not have done
it!
 Effective Writing and Speaking are keys to
success.


◦ “People who cannot write and communicate
clearly will not be hired, and if already
working, are unlikely to last long enough to be
considered for promotion. “ [From College
Board]

Frustrations
Terrible Writing
• Poor English usage
• Email that rambles on
• Introduction that does not
motivate
• Conclusion that leaves things
up in the air

Frustrations
Terrible Speaking







Poor voice qualities - volume
Poor English usage
Introduction that does not motivate
Conclusion that leaves things up in the air
Poor handling of questions
Rambling phone messages

Characteristics of good writing
Clear and concise
 Incorporate good grammar, punctuation
and spelling.
 Appropriate to the audience.


Know your audience

Rules for Effective Writing


Plan the Project

Rules for Effective Writing
Have something important to say
 Research the topic thoroughly


Focus on a Topic

Sections of a paper
Introduction
 Body
 Conclusion


Have a good
conclusion!!

Writing a Document
Plan
 Outline
 First Draft
 Second Draft
 Final Document


Second Draft
Make sure all components are present.
Add example as needed, and make sure
conclusion and references appear.
 Make sure each sentence is complete Noun,Verb, Object
 Avoid complex sentences that combine
too many ideas.


Second Draft (Continued)
Make sure words that refer to earlier
items (e.g., “this”, “it”) are very clear and
that there is only one possible
interpretation.
 Be Gender Neutral (avoid “he”)
 SPELL CHECK!!!!!!!
 Add figures and equations


Final Copy
Reread each sentence to make sure it is
clear and uses good sentence structure.
 Double check to make sure each
sentence is, in fact, a complete sentence.


Avoid Overly Wordy Sentences


“It was my assigned task to walk over to
the light switch and effect an action to
extinguish the room lights.”
◦ “I was asked to turn off the lights.”



“The flashing green light is indicative of
the vehicle being ready to function.”
◦ “If the green light is flashing, the car can be
driven.”

Be precise and clear

A good speech leads to success

Practice your speech

If you have any comments or
suggestions, please contact me at:
[email protected]


Slide 15

Writing and Speaking for Technical Professionals
By Martin S. Roden and Teressa E. Murphy

Importance of good communication:

Importance of good communication
If you are the only one who knows about
your work, you may as well not have done
it!
 Effective Writing and Speaking are keys to
success.


◦ “People who cannot write and communicate
clearly will not be hired, and if already
working, are unlikely to last long enough to be
considered for promotion. “ [From College
Board]

Frustrations
Terrible Writing
• Poor English usage
• Email that rambles on
• Introduction that does not
motivate
• Conclusion that leaves things
up in the air

Frustrations
Terrible Speaking







Poor voice qualities - volume
Poor English usage
Introduction that does not motivate
Conclusion that leaves things up in the air
Poor handling of questions
Rambling phone messages

Characteristics of good writing
Clear and concise
 Incorporate good grammar, punctuation
and spelling.
 Appropriate to the audience.


Know your audience

Rules for Effective Writing


Plan the Project

Rules for Effective Writing
Have something important to say
 Research the topic thoroughly


Focus on a Topic

Sections of a paper
Introduction
 Body
 Conclusion


Have a good
conclusion!!

Writing a Document
Plan
 Outline
 First Draft
 Second Draft
 Final Document


Second Draft
Make sure all components are present.
Add example as needed, and make sure
conclusion and references appear.
 Make sure each sentence is complete Noun,Verb, Object
 Avoid complex sentences that combine
too many ideas.


Second Draft (Continued)
Make sure words that refer to earlier
items (e.g., “this”, “it”) are very clear and
that there is only one possible
interpretation.
 Be Gender Neutral (avoid “he”)
 SPELL CHECK!!!!!!!
 Add figures and equations


Final Copy
Reread each sentence to make sure it is
clear and uses good sentence structure.
 Double check to make sure each
sentence is, in fact, a complete sentence.


Avoid Overly Wordy Sentences


“It was my assigned task to walk over to
the light switch and effect an action to
extinguish the room lights.”
◦ “I was asked to turn off the lights.”



“The flashing green light is indicative of
the vehicle being ready to function.”
◦ “If the green light is flashing, the car can be
driven.”

Be precise and clear

A good speech leads to success

Practice your speech

If you have any comments or
suggestions, please contact me at:
[email protected]


Slide 16

Writing and Speaking for Technical Professionals
By Martin S. Roden and Teressa E. Murphy

Importance of good communication:

Importance of good communication
If you are the only one who knows about
your work, you may as well not have done
it!
 Effective Writing and Speaking are keys to
success.


◦ “People who cannot write and communicate
clearly will not be hired, and if already
working, are unlikely to last long enough to be
considered for promotion. “ [From College
Board]

Frustrations
Terrible Writing
• Poor English usage
• Email that rambles on
• Introduction that does not
motivate
• Conclusion that leaves things
up in the air

Frustrations
Terrible Speaking







Poor voice qualities - volume
Poor English usage
Introduction that does not motivate
Conclusion that leaves things up in the air
Poor handling of questions
Rambling phone messages

Characteristics of good writing
Clear and concise
 Incorporate good grammar, punctuation
and spelling.
 Appropriate to the audience.


Know your audience

Rules for Effective Writing


Plan the Project

Rules for Effective Writing
Have something important to say
 Research the topic thoroughly


Focus on a Topic

Sections of a paper
Introduction
 Body
 Conclusion


Have a good
conclusion!!

Writing a Document
Plan
 Outline
 First Draft
 Second Draft
 Final Document


Second Draft
Make sure all components are present.
Add example as needed, and make sure
conclusion and references appear.
 Make sure each sentence is complete Noun,Verb, Object
 Avoid complex sentences that combine
too many ideas.


Second Draft (Continued)
Make sure words that refer to earlier
items (e.g., “this”, “it”) are very clear and
that there is only one possible
interpretation.
 Be Gender Neutral (avoid “he”)
 SPELL CHECK!!!!!!!
 Add figures and equations


Final Copy
Reread each sentence to make sure it is
clear and uses good sentence structure.
 Double check to make sure each
sentence is, in fact, a complete sentence.


Avoid Overly Wordy Sentences


“It was my assigned task to walk over to
the light switch and effect an action to
extinguish the room lights.”
◦ “I was asked to turn off the lights.”



“The flashing green light is indicative of
the vehicle being ready to function.”
◦ “If the green light is flashing, the car can be
driven.”

Be precise and clear

A good speech leads to success

Practice your speech

If you have any comments or
suggestions, please contact me at:
[email protected]


Slide 17

Writing and Speaking for Technical Professionals
By Martin S. Roden and Teressa E. Murphy

Importance of good communication:

Importance of good communication
If you are the only one who knows about
your work, you may as well not have done
it!
 Effective Writing and Speaking are keys to
success.


◦ “People who cannot write and communicate
clearly will not be hired, and if already
working, are unlikely to last long enough to be
considered for promotion. “ [From College
Board]

Frustrations
Terrible Writing
• Poor English usage
• Email that rambles on
• Introduction that does not
motivate
• Conclusion that leaves things
up in the air

Frustrations
Terrible Speaking







Poor voice qualities - volume
Poor English usage
Introduction that does not motivate
Conclusion that leaves things up in the air
Poor handling of questions
Rambling phone messages

Characteristics of good writing
Clear and concise
 Incorporate good grammar, punctuation
and spelling.
 Appropriate to the audience.


Know your audience

Rules for Effective Writing


Plan the Project

Rules for Effective Writing
Have something important to say
 Research the topic thoroughly


Focus on a Topic

Sections of a paper
Introduction
 Body
 Conclusion


Have a good
conclusion!!

Writing a Document
Plan
 Outline
 First Draft
 Second Draft
 Final Document


Second Draft
Make sure all components are present.
Add example as needed, and make sure
conclusion and references appear.
 Make sure each sentence is complete Noun,Verb, Object
 Avoid complex sentences that combine
too many ideas.


Second Draft (Continued)
Make sure words that refer to earlier
items (e.g., “this”, “it”) are very clear and
that there is only one possible
interpretation.
 Be Gender Neutral (avoid “he”)
 SPELL CHECK!!!!!!!
 Add figures and equations


Final Copy
Reread each sentence to make sure it is
clear and uses good sentence structure.
 Double check to make sure each
sentence is, in fact, a complete sentence.


Avoid Overly Wordy Sentences


“It was my assigned task to walk over to
the light switch and effect an action to
extinguish the room lights.”
◦ “I was asked to turn off the lights.”



“The flashing green light is indicative of
the vehicle being ready to function.”
◦ “If the green light is flashing, the car can be
driven.”

Be precise and clear

A good speech leads to success

Practice your speech

If you have any comments or
suggestions, please contact me at:
[email protected]


Slide 18

Writing and Speaking for Technical Professionals
By Martin S. Roden and Teressa E. Murphy

Importance of good communication:

Importance of good communication
If you are the only one who knows about
your work, you may as well not have done
it!
 Effective Writing and Speaking are keys to
success.


◦ “People who cannot write and communicate
clearly will not be hired, and if already
working, are unlikely to last long enough to be
considered for promotion. “ [From College
Board]

Frustrations
Terrible Writing
• Poor English usage
• Email that rambles on
• Introduction that does not
motivate
• Conclusion that leaves things
up in the air

Frustrations
Terrible Speaking







Poor voice qualities - volume
Poor English usage
Introduction that does not motivate
Conclusion that leaves things up in the air
Poor handling of questions
Rambling phone messages

Characteristics of good writing
Clear and concise
 Incorporate good grammar, punctuation
and spelling.
 Appropriate to the audience.


Know your audience

Rules for Effective Writing


Plan the Project

Rules for Effective Writing
Have something important to say
 Research the topic thoroughly


Focus on a Topic

Sections of a paper
Introduction
 Body
 Conclusion


Have a good
conclusion!!

Writing a Document
Plan
 Outline
 First Draft
 Second Draft
 Final Document


Second Draft
Make sure all components are present.
Add example as needed, and make sure
conclusion and references appear.
 Make sure each sentence is complete Noun,Verb, Object
 Avoid complex sentences that combine
too many ideas.


Second Draft (Continued)
Make sure words that refer to earlier
items (e.g., “this”, “it”) are very clear and
that there is only one possible
interpretation.
 Be Gender Neutral (avoid “he”)
 SPELL CHECK!!!!!!!
 Add figures and equations


Final Copy
Reread each sentence to make sure it is
clear and uses good sentence structure.
 Double check to make sure each
sentence is, in fact, a complete sentence.


Avoid Overly Wordy Sentences


“It was my assigned task to walk over to
the light switch and effect an action to
extinguish the room lights.”
◦ “I was asked to turn off the lights.”



“The flashing green light is indicative of
the vehicle being ready to function.”
◦ “If the green light is flashing, the car can be
driven.”

Be precise and clear

A good speech leads to success

Practice your speech

If you have any comments or
suggestions, please contact me at:
[email protected]


Slide 19

Writing and Speaking for Technical Professionals
By Martin S. Roden and Teressa E. Murphy

Importance of good communication:

Importance of good communication
If you are the only one who knows about
your work, you may as well not have done
it!
 Effective Writing and Speaking are keys to
success.


◦ “People who cannot write and communicate
clearly will not be hired, and if already
working, are unlikely to last long enough to be
considered for promotion. “ [From College
Board]

Frustrations
Terrible Writing
• Poor English usage
• Email that rambles on
• Introduction that does not
motivate
• Conclusion that leaves things
up in the air

Frustrations
Terrible Speaking







Poor voice qualities - volume
Poor English usage
Introduction that does not motivate
Conclusion that leaves things up in the air
Poor handling of questions
Rambling phone messages

Characteristics of good writing
Clear and concise
 Incorporate good grammar, punctuation
and spelling.
 Appropriate to the audience.


Know your audience

Rules for Effective Writing


Plan the Project

Rules for Effective Writing
Have something important to say
 Research the topic thoroughly


Focus on a Topic

Sections of a paper
Introduction
 Body
 Conclusion


Have a good
conclusion!!

Writing a Document
Plan
 Outline
 First Draft
 Second Draft
 Final Document


Second Draft
Make sure all components are present.
Add example as needed, and make sure
conclusion and references appear.
 Make sure each sentence is complete Noun,Verb, Object
 Avoid complex sentences that combine
too many ideas.


Second Draft (Continued)
Make sure words that refer to earlier
items (e.g., “this”, “it”) are very clear and
that there is only one possible
interpretation.
 Be Gender Neutral (avoid “he”)
 SPELL CHECK!!!!!!!
 Add figures and equations


Final Copy
Reread each sentence to make sure it is
clear and uses good sentence structure.
 Double check to make sure each
sentence is, in fact, a complete sentence.


Avoid Overly Wordy Sentences


“It was my assigned task to walk over to
the light switch and effect an action to
extinguish the room lights.”
◦ “I was asked to turn off the lights.”



“The flashing green light is indicative of
the vehicle being ready to function.”
◦ “If the green light is flashing, the car can be
driven.”

Be precise and clear

A good speech leads to success

Practice your speech

If you have any comments or
suggestions, please contact me at:
[email protected]


Slide 20

Writing and Speaking for Technical Professionals
By Martin S. Roden and Teressa E. Murphy

Importance of good communication:

Importance of good communication
If you are the only one who knows about
your work, you may as well not have done
it!
 Effective Writing and Speaking are keys to
success.


◦ “People who cannot write and communicate
clearly will not be hired, and if already
working, are unlikely to last long enough to be
considered for promotion. “ [From College
Board]

Frustrations
Terrible Writing
• Poor English usage
• Email that rambles on
• Introduction that does not
motivate
• Conclusion that leaves things
up in the air

Frustrations
Terrible Speaking







Poor voice qualities - volume
Poor English usage
Introduction that does not motivate
Conclusion that leaves things up in the air
Poor handling of questions
Rambling phone messages

Characteristics of good writing
Clear and concise
 Incorporate good grammar, punctuation
and spelling.
 Appropriate to the audience.


Know your audience

Rules for Effective Writing


Plan the Project

Rules for Effective Writing
Have something important to say
 Research the topic thoroughly


Focus on a Topic

Sections of a paper
Introduction
 Body
 Conclusion


Have a good
conclusion!!

Writing a Document
Plan
 Outline
 First Draft
 Second Draft
 Final Document


Second Draft
Make sure all components are present.
Add example as needed, and make sure
conclusion and references appear.
 Make sure each sentence is complete Noun,Verb, Object
 Avoid complex sentences that combine
too many ideas.


Second Draft (Continued)
Make sure words that refer to earlier
items (e.g., “this”, “it”) are very clear and
that there is only one possible
interpretation.
 Be Gender Neutral (avoid “he”)
 SPELL CHECK!!!!!!!
 Add figures and equations


Final Copy
Reread each sentence to make sure it is
clear and uses good sentence structure.
 Double check to make sure each
sentence is, in fact, a complete sentence.


Avoid Overly Wordy Sentences


“It was my assigned task to walk over to
the light switch and effect an action to
extinguish the room lights.”
◦ “I was asked to turn off the lights.”



“The flashing green light is indicative of
the vehicle being ready to function.”
◦ “If the green light is flashing, the car can be
driven.”

Be precise and clear

A good speech leads to success

Practice your speech

If you have any comments or
suggestions, please contact me at:
[email protected]


Slide 21

Writing and Speaking for Technical Professionals
By Martin S. Roden and Teressa E. Murphy

Importance of good communication:

Importance of good communication
If you are the only one who knows about
your work, you may as well not have done
it!
 Effective Writing and Speaking are keys to
success.


◦ “People who cannot write and communicate
clearly will not be hired, and if already
working, are unlikely to last long enough to be
considered for promotion. “ [From College
Board]

Frustrations
Terrible Writing
• Poor English usage
• Email that rambles on
• Introduction that does not
motivate
• Conclusion that leaves things
up in the air

Frustrations
Terrible Speaking







Poor voice qualities - volume
Poor English usage
Introduction that does not motivate
Conclusion that leaves things up in the air
Poor handling of questions
Rambling phone messages

Characteristics of good writing
Clear and concise
 Incorporate good grammar, punctuation
and spelling.
 Appropriate to the audience.


Know your audience

Rules for Effective Writing


Plan the Project

Rules for Effective Writing
Have something important to say
 Research the topic thoroughly


Focus on a Topic

Sections of a paper
Introduction
 Body
 Conclusion


Have a good
conclusion!!

Writing a Document
Plan
 Outline
 First Draft
 Second Draft
 Final Document


Second Draft
Make sure all components are present.
Add example as needed, and make sure
conclusion and references appear.
 Make sure each sentence is complete Noun,Verb, Object
 Avoid complex sentences that combine
too many ideas.


Second Draft (Continued)
Make sure words that refer to earlier
items (e.g., “this”, “it”) are very clear and
that there is only one possible
interpretation.
 Be Gender Neutral (avoid “he”)
 SPELL CHECK!!!!!!!
 Add figures and equations


Final Copy
Reread each sentence to make sure it is
clear and uses good sentence structure.
 Double check to make sure each
sentence is, in fact, a complete sentence.


Avoid Overly Wordy Sentences


“It was my assigned task to walk over to
the light switch and effect an action to
extinguish the room lights.”
◦ “I was asked to turn off the lights.”



“The flashing green light is indicative of
the vehicle being ready to function.”
◦ “If the green light is flashing, the car can be
driven.”

Be precise and clear

A good speech leads to success

Practice your speech

If you have any comments or
suggestions, please contact me at:
[email protected]