Sue Horner is a freelance writer in Oakville, Ontario, who blogs about writing, newsletters, communications and running an independent business in The Red Jacket Diaries blog.
While you’re prepping for incoming cold weather by consuming pumpkin spice everything, the U.S. National Weather Service is talking about plain language, of all things. It seems people don’t necessarily pay attention to warnings about cold weather. Or maybe they don’t...
You don’t have to be an official “artist” to be creative. From knitting to taking photos to painting to crafting colourful quilts, the options are endless. And whether you’re a beginner or a pro, you’re flexing your creative muscles – and likely having fun doing it....
Sometimes the right words are just as effective as the famous picture that’s worth a thousand words. You may have heard about the wildfires that tore through Fort McMurray, Alberta, in 2016. News reports showed walls of flame and images of desperate people...
Did you know you can spot the use of ChatGPT and other forms of artificial intelligence from the language they use? Apparently AI loves buzzwords. An investigation into scientific articles found a suspicious increase in the use of words like intricate, commendable,...
Artificial intelligence may be fast, but its first drafts are not usually ready for prime time. Users complain an AI first draft is wordy and repetitive. It meanders and takes a long time to get to the point. And it can be filled with transitional words like...
You’ll have noticed that I share a lot of posts about good writing! Once again, my roundup of social media posts you might have missed touches on tips for better writing, overcoming writer’s block, using gender-inclusive language and more. *** If you’re writing...
Never underestimate the value of simple pleasures! Even savouring a steaming cup of freshly roasted coffee with a friend can strengthen a relationship, stimulate your brain and reduce feelings of isolation. It can also spark a moment of joy, which may be in short...
When it comes to explaining complicated material, one helpful tool is what I call “expressive writing.” That’s using analogies – similes and metaphors – to spark an “aha” moment of understanding. (And couldn’t we all use a shortcut to understanding...
I’m always looking for reminders about good writing, and here’s another collection of advice. While I’ve shared these on social media, what are the chances you happened to be on X or Facebook or LinkedIn at the right time to see them? There are 12 basics of...
Many communication professionals have just marked Pride Month by showing how their companies support diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. If that’s you, good for you. But are you also carrying out those activities the rest of the year? Unfortunately, June is...