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Write Right, Not Wrong: 3 Must-Have Writer’s References

January 1, 2010 | Leave a Comment

Whether you’re writing for a client — or writing your own stuff — you need solid references to answer questions about everything from format to spelling. And you’ll always have questions, no matter what you write or how long you write. Writing is funny that way.

So here are my “Big 3″ no-nonsense, gotta-have picks:

For media releases, news articles and Web copywriting: The Associated Press Stylebook

Get it online or get it in hard copy — it’s a cheap and essential thrill. The writing rules are different for media and marketing, and you want to get those rules right. The AP Stylebook will help you navigate the journalist’s world with confidence.

For business writing of all types: The Gregg Reference Manual

It’s called “the Business Writer’s Survival Manual” for a reason. Whether you’re working on a letter, manuscript or memo, The Gregg Reference Manual can help. In my case, this resource ferrets out what I thought I knew but didn’t — and what I should have known but missed. It’s an enlightening experience when I use it. And I always use it.

For spelling: A solid dictionary — your choice

Keep it close. Check it relentlessly. And love it unconditionally. Spelling can make or break your writing.

I’m not going to recommend a single reference; there are lots of great options out there. Among others, I use Webster’s New World College Dictionary, the companion resource to the AP Stylebook. Choose a general dictionary and industry-specific references, if necessary. Consult as many as you need to spell things right. Never rely solely on your word processor’s spell-checker. You’ll be sorry.

That’s my “must have” list: the 3 writer’s references that I just can’t do without. Are there other great writing references out there? Absolutely. But these are the essentials I rely on every day.

So what’s on your “must have” writer’s reference list?

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