BASIC PRINCIPLES OF WRITTEN COMMUNICATION

BASIC PRINCIPLES OF WRITTEN COMMUNICATION

The core principle of any communication is that of „adaptation‟. The sender must use words, phrases, signs and signals that the receiver is familiar with. Sender must be very sensitive and good at visualizing the level of audience. If it is not done, he may be talking Greek to some one – it is like using a foreign language quite unknown to the receiver. Following two aspects must be borne in mind:

 Process of adaptation
 Governing rule of adaptation

(1) Process of adaptation

One has to work hard to be able to express one‟s thoughts accurately. It is so difficult that most people seem to be happy in using the first word that flashes in their mind. The process should begin with visualizing the receivers – what they know, feel or think. It often means communicating with readers (who are customers) at levels lower than yours.
Adaptation is easier if one is communicating to a single person or a homogenous group. If addressing a mixed or diverse group, one has to adapt at the lowest level.

(2) Governing rule of adaptation

An overriding rule that should govern the adaptation process is that of simplicity. Choice of simple words and phrases, woven in to simple sentences and use of simple rules of grammar can propel a person forward and fast in his learning curve for developing effective writing skills. The „KISS‟ principle is easy to learn and remember; it is a reminder to „keep it simple and short‟.