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Trick or Treat? The dreaded hyphen is out to get you this Halloween! Folks just can’t win when it comes to hyphens. Hyphens can be complicated–and subjective. To hyphenate or not to hyphenate? It often depends on how the words are being used in the sentence. A style guide (like Chicago Style) or grammar book will come in handy (or hire an editor or proofreader!). For a quick overview, I recommend this online reference from GrammarBook.com. This checklist might also help you review your writing:
Here are a few examples (with my notations) from some business websites I ran across recently. Unfortunately, I often encounter these types of errors on the homepage and other primary pages, such as About Us, Services, etc... I’ve blurred some of the text to prevent embarrassment. These errors are easy to make–but also easy to correct. They are proof that even simple website copy needs a fresh set of eyes for quality assurance. It’s exactly why Luminary Works offers its Website Review service as a budget-friendly option to ensure your site shines with top-notch professionalism!      Don’t let bad grammar and punctuation play tricks on you. Let your error-free message be the ultimate treat for your customers! Happy Halloween from Luminary Works! Did you know October 20 is National Day on Writing? Created by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE), this special day “celebrates the importance, joy, and evolution of writing.” Look for a flurry of tweets using the hashtag #WhyIWrite.
Whether you’re a writer of books, blogs, or business reports, take time to reflect on the quality of your writing. Is it clearly written? Is it free of spelling errors and other blunders? Will it achieve your objective? Will it resonate with your audience? If you’re trying to improve your writing, consider the guidance from these books. They will help to ensure that your “practice makes perfect” rather than “practice makes problematic habits.”
When it comes to writing, follow Nike’s advice and “just do it!” Write. Edit. Repeat. Happy National Day on Writing! Having a clear, concise, error-free website is imperative. Even better, it doesn’t have to break the bank – or your budget.
Consider allocating a small amount in your 2017 budget for editorial services. When is the last time someone reviewed your website (or your “evergreen” printed marketing materials)? I frequently spot mistakes in these areas—even ones that spell check would catch. While minor errors may not be the end of the world, their presence subconsciously lowers your level of professionalism to your customers and prospects. When you’re trying to close the deal, doubt is the last thing you want standing in the way. Depending on the size of your site or your printed pieces, editorial reviews can be completed quickly, which translates to inexpensively. That fresh set of eyes makes all the difference, and your prospects can keep their eye on the prize. If you’re interested in getting a quote specific to your project, let me know.  "Mind Your Head" sign at the short doorway at the temple ruins in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Signs—especially those in foreign countries where English is not the native language—are often ripe for editorial correction. This “Mind Your Head” sign from Cambodia isn’t incorrect; it simply isn’t what we would expect to see in America. Particularly, the verb “Mind” evokes a British approach (Mind the Gap). Other common signage wording comes to mind:
Still, I love this photo and its presumably unintended double meaning: “Mind Your Head.” Don’t run into things or give yourself a concussion. And, take care to fill your head with knowledge, positive thoughts, and new experiences (like visiting Cambodia’s magnificent temples and ruins!).  |
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