THE ECONOMIST STYLE GUIDE

I find the Economist’s style of writing to be excellent. Its readable without being too simple and is just as easy to comprehend whether spoken or written. Here are some

George Orwell’s Six elementary rules

The first requirement of The Economist is that it should be readily understandable. Clarity of writing usually follows clarity of thought.¹ So think what you want to say, then say it as simply as possible. Keep in mind George Orwell’s six elementary rules:

1. Never use a metaphor, simile or other figure of speech which you are used to seeing in print.
2. Never use a long word where a short one will do.
3. If it is possible to cut out a word, always cut it out.
4. Never use the passive where you can use the active.
5. Never use a foreign phrase, a scientific word or a jargon word if you can think of an everyday English equivalent.
6. Break any of these rules sooner than say anything outright barbarous.