12 dead easy ways to write more conversationally

I have found that most people find writing conversationally really hard, but it's just like having a conversation with your best friend. It's a way of writing that makes it sound like you're talking to someone, and is easier to understand and engage with because the words are simple and friendly. It will also make your writing more fun and interesting to read.

For example, instead of saying "utilise," say "use." Instead of saying "My first holiday abroad is one I will always remember" say "I'll always remember my first holiday abroad".

When you're speaking to someone, you keep your sentences short and simple. So try to do the same with your writing. Here are 10 dead simple ways that will help you write more conversationally.

(WARNING: If you are freaked out when people get the grammar wrong - you really aren't gonna like this!)

1. Don't write. Talk. And talk as if you were chatting with a friend.

2. Use slang. Wow! What a great idea!

3. Use contractions like it's, you're and can't instead of it is, you are, and cannot. Who ever says I cannot do that?

4. Use rhetorical questions.

5. Use the kinds of phrases your audience use when they are chatting. 'You know', the ones that are 'dead simple' to understand.

6. Don't go overboard. Everyone says 'erm...' but it will seem erm... weird if you use it too much.

7. Use common and simple words instead of utilising complex language. Words like use, get, and send instead of utilise, obtain, and despatch.

8. Be authentic. If you've never said "My Dad and I..." don't write it. "Me and my Dad..." works just fine.

9. Personalise your writing with personal pronouns. I, we, you.

10. Talk to yourself as you write. If there are others around it might be an idea to do it in your head.

11. When you've finished, read your writing out loud to see if it flows. You can't do this one in your head - you'll just have to risk others thinking that you are more than a bit odd.

12. And start sentences with 'and', 'but', and 'because'.

That's it! Dead simple.

Remember, keep it personal and use simple language. Oooh! And make sure your sentences are short and sweet. Take some time to practice writing in this way and you'll be creating great conversations with your readers in no time.

Sandra Hughes

That Book Woman