How To _ Archives

How to Ask for a Raise Via Email

Asking for a raise can be particularly daunting, and using a form of electronic communication can feel especially impersonal. However, if you handle your request with etiquette and professionalism, you may find the success you desire. We will show you the best methods for requesting… continue reading

How to Counter a Salary Offer (With Examples)

When you apply for a job you’re enthusiastic about, your excitement may deflate when the company offers a lower salary than you expect. Now you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation, trying to decide whether to accept the low-ball offer because the job interests you… continue reading

graphic showing 2 options for shortening the word "continued:" "cont." and "cont'd"

What’s the Right Way to Abbreviate Continued?

Most abbreviations are easy to figure out. It’s much more common to say “Mr.” instead of “Mister,” and writing “4 km” is a lot easier than “4 kilometers.” For some abbreviations, however, finding the right way to shorten them isn’t so easy. In fact, there… continue reading

A background of wooden blocks with letters. The blocks in the front spell the word ADVERBS with + ly right below

When Should You Add “-ly” To Words?

Most people think adverbs are formed by simply adding “-ly” to any adjective. Although this is true for many English adverbs, it is not the case! With this being said, let’s look into some rules we must follow when forming and using adverbs. What Are Adjectives… continue reading

Address punctuation: A picture of two envelopes on a wooden table. The text "does punctuation go inside parentheses" is written in the space where the address should be written in order to signify

Address Punctuation: Commas and More

Let’s talk address punctuation. Even though it may be considered a dying skill, correctly addressing an envelope can be very useful. Addresses can be tricky, as each is different and poses new formatting issues. One main example is commas, which often throw people off when… continue reading

A picture of a puzzle with the word "patience"

How To Use “Patience” And “Patient” In Your Writing

What Does Patience Mean? In its dictionary definition, patience is the ability to wait calmly for a long time or to deal with problems and misfortunes with little frustration. Throughout human history, patience has indeed been a virtue, and many famous writers, from Aristotle to Tolstoy, have… continue reading

So, Can You Start a Sentence with So?

“So” can function as different parts of speech, most commonly an adverb or coordinating conjunction. When speaking, using “so” in casual conversation is generally accepted. However, in writing, “so” should not start sentences unless used in dialogue. Throughout conversation and writing, the word “so”… continue reading

A graphic with a computer and other desk items with a business proposal on the forefront

Perfecting a One-Page Business Proposal

Writing a proposal may seem daunting. They are essential to winning new business. There is pressure to create a persuasive pitch that summarizes the value of what you’re offering. The proposal should also show how you can resolve your client’s problems. And all of that… continue reading

Should You Start A New Paragraph After Dialogue?

Creating solid and effective dialogue in a story can be very tricky; you need it to be clear, you need it to be meaningful, and most importantly, you need it to add something to the story to create depth. To create effective dialogue, follow some… continue reading

Verbing

Did you know you can turn a noun into a verb? This is called “verbing” or “to verb.” If you use a noun in place of a verb, most people will understand what you mean. Verbing is mostly for informal situations. It’s also good to… continue reading