"Have something to say."
That's the key piece of advice in this video by one of the BBC's most experienced correspondents, Allan Little.
In this video, Allan focuses on writing for radio, but his advice applies equally to any journalist who strives to write scripts that are accurate, clear and authoritative.
Among Allan's golden rules:
- Be clear and precise
- Be direct. Write short sentences and use short, punchy words
- Simplify the language, not the thought you're trying to express
- Write conversationally, addressing a single listener
- Use adjectives sparingly
- Avoid clichés. They have no power to convey effective meaning
- Never use a metaphor whose literal meaning you don't understand
- Paint pictures with the words you write and the sounds you record
- Love the language; take time to read and read widely.
Remember, there are many styles of writing, but for each style clarity and simplicity are at their heart.
You can learn more about writing for radio, television and the web from the BBC College of Journalism website. The site is free to licence fee payers within the United Kingdom but you will be charged to access most of the content if you are outside the UK.
