Ever read something and wonder, "What is this writer trying to say?" Often, the problem is a lack of structure. Just as a house needs a solid foundation, strong supporting walls and a sturdy roof, a piece of writing needs a robust and clearly identified structure.
Any piece of writing that reaches beyond the basic communication goal of an e-mail or blog post should be fashioned from three primary structural elements: introduction, body and conclusion. Put another way, you can build a worthy piece of writing by following these three steps:
1. Tell the readers what you're going to tell them.
2. Tell it.
3. Tell them what you just told them.
Writers often fail in their introduction to clearly tell readers what it is they're going to tell them. Too many writers tiptoe into a piece, failing to get to the point of why they're writing and why the audience should read it. Before long the reader is confused or frustrated and is unlikely to keep reading. Depending on the communication, you must either get to the point immediately (a business letter is a good example) or within the first two to three paragraphs (as might be the case if you're writing an article for a corporation's e-newsletter).
Once you've stated the purpose of the piece, then share the information that's at the heart of it. Are you making an argument, sharing details, offering a proposal, presenting evidence? This is the "tell it" part I referred to above. Make sure you arrange your information in a logical order.
Next, write a conclusion that reviews and sums up what you've just written. This is where you tell the readers what you've just told them. A forceful conclusion briefly reviews and reinforces the information you wanted to share. Try to construct a memorable ending. If you've kept the reader's attention until the end, you can make a lasting impression by finishing strongly.
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