Too often when we write, we use long sentences and bombastic words when all we need to do is KISS – Keep It Short and Simple. This is crucial for any written business communication, but especially when we write internationally to our non-native English-speaking colleagues and clients.

Can you split a 40-word sentence into two? Yes, definitely. Keep sentences at no more than 25 words, that’s usually a good start. New thought? Start a new sentence. New topic? Start a new paragraph. And paragraphs? Four lines are good, five if you have to. A space between paragraphs will make your writing easier to read. If you can, use active, not passive voice.

Lastly, why write ‘recapitulate’ when ‘summarise’ will do? Instead of ‘consequently’, just ‘so’. Don’t ‘utilise’ fancy words, just ‘use’ simple ones. 

Do you like to KISS?