Writing---does it seem old-fashioned to you? Everything nowa days is electronic. Telephones connect you with friends, family, business acquaintances. Modems hook you up to other people's computers. Books are quickly translated into movies or videos you can watch. And, literally speaking, you already know how to write. You can sign an order form, make out a grocery list, send e-mail to a friend. Why should you need a book on writing skills for the 21st century?

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In an age of computers, faxes, and the information superhighway, your ability to write counts more than ever before Never has communication been a greater part of every career choice nor has the written word had more power. Now you can harness that power with an invaluable reference that gives you all the information you need to achieve professional quality writing--whether you wantrto write a novel, get a top grade on a school paper, or gain respect and rewards in business.

Insider information on writing novels, short stories, and plays--and getting published

Scores of models for letters, memos reports, minutes, and commercial correspondence

Expert advice on style, organization, effective imagery, and persuasive techniques

An introduction to electronic and library research

Drafting, editing, and proofreading skills

A handy reference section for grammar, punctuation, spelling...and more

Introduction: Why Write?  

 I. Types of Writing  

1. Fiction  

2. Nonfiction  

3. Business Writing  

4. Personal Writing  

II. Grammar and Usage  

5. Parts of Speech  

6. Parts of a Sentence  

7. Developing Paragraphs  

8. Aspects of Style  

9. Special Problems in Grammar and Usage  

III. Punctuation, Capitalization, and Spelling  

10. Rules of Punctuation  

11. Rules of Capitalization  

12. Word Parts and Word Meaning  

13. Rules of Spelling  

14. Abbreviations and Numbers  

IV. The Writing Process  

15. Preparing to Write  

16. Drafting  

17. Revising  

18. Proofreading  

V. Electronic Research and Computing 

19. Library Research  

20. Hardware  

21. Software  

22. Computer Prewriting and Writing  

23. Revising and Proofreading  

24. Desktop Publishing  

VI. Feedback and Publication  

25. Writers' Groups, Centers, Colonies, and Organizations  

26. Publishing Markets  

VII. Resources