Here’s a brilliant list by David Ogilvy on writing.

A memo drafted by David Ogilvy for the management to circulate as they saw fit:

Septermber 7, 1982

How To Write

The better you write, the higher you will go in Ogilvy & Mather.

People who think well, write well.

Good writing is not a natural gift.

You have to learn to write well.

Here are 10 hints.

1. Read the Roman-Raphaelson book on writing.* Read it three times.
2. Write the way you talk. Naturally.
3. Use short words, short sentences and short paragraphs.
4. Never use jargon words like reconceptualize, demassification, attitudinally, judgmentally. They are hallmarks of a pretentious ass.
5. Never write more than two pages on any subject.
6. Check your quotations.
7. Never send a letter or a memo on the day you write it. Read it aloud the next morning-and then edit it.
8. If it is something important, get a colleague to improve it.
9. Before you send your letter or memo, make sure it is crystal clear what you want the recipient to do.
10. If you want ACTION, don’t write. Go and tell the guy what you want.

*Writing That Works, Harper & Row, 1981

H/T:

One of the most legendary marketers of all time: David Ogilvy

In 1982, David wrote an internal memo to the employees of his advertising agency titled "How to write."

And in just 10 bullets he put together a masterclass in effective writing.

Here's a breakdown of each one: pic.twitter.com/MxRYuQRLyA

— Dickie Bush 🚢 (@dickiebush) June 2, 2021