Writing to Advise: Form, Tone, Register

Form

Piece written specifically to guide the reader’s action or thought process.
Structure may be drawn out as steps, often leading from a problem to a solution or from a question to an answer.
Can be presented as letters, articles, blog posts, emails, or leaflets.
Examples of this form include advice columns, self-help guides, or how-to articles.

Tone

The tone can be friendly, gentler and more personal, encouraging the reader to feel supported.
Language can be more conversational, making use of rhetorical questions or direct addressing of reader.
Simplicity and directness can help the reader to better understand and apply the advice.
Avoid patronising or belittling tone; the aim is to guide, not reprimand.

Register

Semi-formal register is common in advice writing, striking a balance between authoritative and approachable.
Sentence structure should be varied - use of imperative (commands) to deliver advice, but also questions to engage, and declarative sentences to provide information.
Use of second person pronouns (“you” or “your”) to directly address the reader.
Some contractions can be used to create an informal, conversational tone, but avoid slang or text speak.

General Tips

Understand the needs and background of your target audience - advice should be tailored for them.
Be clear and specific with your advice. Vague suggestions may not be helpful.
Use examples or anecdotes to illustrate points, making advice more relatable and understandable.
Practice writing advice in different formats and for different audiences to build adaptability and versatility in your writing skills.