Good advice for English practices doesn't always have to come from people who work specifically in the field of English. Tom Woods is a super-smart author and professor of economics, history, and political science, whose podcasts appear almost daily and cover a wide range of interesting topics. Over Christmas, one of his podcasts was on becoming a better academic writer. On this short episode, Woods explains a few tips for high schoolers, college students, or anyone in need of tightening up their writing skills:
1. read good writing
2. be mercilessly concise
3. use the right words, not big words
4. know the rules so you can break them
5. practice with word limits
Even though I teach hundreds of students a year how to be better writers, it is a lifelong process that I find myself continually working on, as well. There’s always room for improvement. Woods’s charismatic voice and amusing anecdotes make him one of my favorite podcasters. Take 15 minutes and listen, and let me know of any additional writing tips you think would be helpful. Enjoy!
1. read good writing
2. be mercilessly concise
3. use the right words, not big words
4. know the rules so you can break them
5. practice with word limits
Even though I teach hundreds of students a year how to be better writers, it is a lifelong process that I find myself continually working on, as well. There’s always room for improvement. Woods’s charismatic voice and amusing anecdotes make him one of my favorite podcasters. Take 15 minutes and listen, and let me know of any additional writing tips you think would be helpful. Enjoy!