Writing to Advise: Form, Tone, Register

Writing to Advise: Form, Tone, Register

  • In “Writing to Advise,” the chosen form should be suitable for communicating advice and guidance. Popular modes include letters, articles, reports, or speeches.

  • The writer’s purpose should be clear and for the benefit of the reader. They should seek to understand, empathise, and offer guidance or solutions.

  • The tone of the advice offered should be non-judgmental and impartial. The aim is to help the reader make informed decisions, not to push them towards a particular choice.

  • Phrases that evoke empathy and understanding are useful in this form of writing. These phrases can include language like “I understand how you feel,” and “Many people experience this, you’re not alone.”

  • Sentence starters that echo advice giving like “Have you considered…?”, “Another possible approach might be…”, “An option worth exploring could be…” effectively navigate this writing style.

  • The register in “Writing to Advise” needs to be formal or semi-formal, depending on the chosen form and the audience. Using colloquial language can make advice seem less professional or credible.

  • An advising piece of writing should also use the imperative mood to give an order or direction as a part of the advice. For example, “Ensure you take deep breaths when feeling anxious.”

  • In terms of structure, it is essential to use paragraphs effectively to organise thoughts and tips, ensuring clarity for the reader.

  • Use facts, statistics, or expert views to support the advice being given, increasing the authority and credibility of your suggestions.

  • The conclusion should summarise the guidance given and encourage the reader to considering taking the suggested advice.

  • Lastly, proofread your work checking for errors or unclear sentences. Clarity is key in this style of writing.