No one writes it perfect the first time. That’s why there are editors in the world. When I was young and just starting out as a writer,… Read more “The invisible hand of the editor”
Author: alarabiechase
Let me lay it out for you
I’m not going to lie: I have been trying to write this blog post for two weeks. Coherently and clearly explaining the correct use of “lie” and… Read more “Let me lay it out for you”
Anyone? Anyone?
Sometimes, it’s not the letters in a word that matter, but the spaces between them. One little space can wreak a lot of havoc. Ladies and gentlemen,… Read more “Anyone? Anyone?”
The passive voice should be avoided
Imagine yourself as the boss of whatever you are writing. You get to choose what to say and how to say it. Now think of some bosses… Read more “The passive voice should be avoided”
Let your cover letter tell your story
I used to think cover letters were a pain in the neck. Just one more blasted thing I had to do before applying for a job, something… Read more “Let your cover letter tell your story”
The effect is that it affects your credibility
Affect and effect. What’s the difference? One tiny letter at the beginning of the word. Use the wrong one, and you’re “ffect.” (Go on, say it out… Read more “The effect is that it affects your credibility”
They’re/Their/There, or why is English so mean?
Look, I know as well as you do that all of those words up there in the title sound the damn same. And I know it’s completely… Read more “They’re/Their/There, or why is English so mean?”
Language, clarity, and connection
I’ve been down with a bad cold for the past two weeks, which has made my brain fuzzy and my voice hoarse. It got me thinking about… Read more “Language, clarity, and connection”
The Style Guide: a writer’s best friend
I started doing some editing work for a large organization last week, and they sent me their in-house style guide to use as a reference. I read… Read more “The Style Guide: a writer’s best friend”
Hello, it’s me
I was wondering if after all these years, you’d like to hear how I explain the difference between it’s and its to people who misuse it. Well,… Read more “Hello, it’s me”
Alison Larabie Chase 