Week 2: Student Response to Discussion One and Two and Assignments

ThursdayApr 5 at 10:30am

Manage Discussion Entry

As an aspiring journalist, one thing to keep in mind is the use of grammar and punctuation. When we first begin writing at a young age, these are some of the key factors into making our subject matter flow and be clear and concise. The use of punctuation is an ongoing learning experience for many. There are different ways to use certain punctuations that I still have problems with. Luckily, the internet has many editing and peer review tools to help scope my writings better. During my time at Ashford University, I have used Grammarly, but before I would try to get someone to edit my papers better. There have been many times where I would write and then go back and edit it myself but reading it aloud to someone else helps me the best. It helps with not only hearing the words out loud but getting a second opinion on what is needed to better the article.

One of my biggest challenges with writing as a journalist is not thinking short. “In writing, shorter is better. If there is a shorter word with the same meaning as a longer one, use it. If there is a shorter sentence with the same meaning as a longer one, use it. Readers appreciate this.” (Kershner) I have been known to write as I talk, which is not the best habit to have when becoming a journalist. The best way to improve my writing skills is to keep writing. The more practice you have the better you will get with your craft. When other people read my writings, I feel good. I enjoy when others take the time to read something I worked on. Most of the time I will have someone edit over it, but besides that I take pride in what I do.

-Kendra

Kershner, J. W. (2012). The elements of news writing. Boston: Pearson Allyn & Bacon.