Words Have Power

Parentheses ( )

2009-10-22T07:40:00.000-07:00

Parentheses ( ) are included into a sentence to enclose less important or explanatory information.

Use Parentheses in the following cases:

1. To set off explanatory or nonessential matter

"It is only in good writing that you will find how words are best used, what shades of meaning they can be made to carry, and by what devices (or lack of them) the reader is kept going smoothly or bogged down."

2. To provide or spell out an acronym

I want to create a LAN (Local Area Network) at office.

Punctuate sentences with parentheses as follows:

When the Parenthetical content is a complete statement, include punctuation within the parentheses.

(Don't expect me until midnight.)

When a Parenthetical matter falls in the middle or at the end of a sentence, place the necessary punctuation after the closing parenthesis.

If I arrive late (and it's quite likely), please let me in.

Do not put a comma, semicolon, or dash before an opening parenthesis.

Wrong: When I reach, (even if it's late), I'd appreciate a cup of coffee.

Right: When I reach (even if it's late), I'd appreciate a cup of coffee.

A GREAT Job Interview Follow-up Letter Secret

2009-10-05T22:01:00.000-07:00

Written By Jimmy Sweeney
President of CareerJimmy and Author of the new,
Job Interview "Secret"

You've just finished the interview you hoped to get and it went pretty well as far as you can tell. Now you must play the 'waiting game,' as the hiring manager makes his or her decision about offering you the job. However, you can be active even as you wait. Here's a secret most people don't know about—so keep it to yourself, okay?

A Gift That Continues to Give

Give the interviewer a 'gift.' No! Not a Starbucks card or a movie pass. In fact, if you're not careful such a gift might be considered a bribe, so of course you want to avoid that. However, you can give something of value that will be seen as a kind gesture from a person who has taken note of the employer's interests and hobbies.

You can pass on a 'gift of information'—an article from a magazine or newspaper, a reference to a certain web site, or a brochure or pamphlet––that focuses on something the hiring manager would welcome, use, and enjoy.

Thank You PLUS

For example, suppose you and the interviewer talked about your mutual interest in golf or dog training or skiing or chess. How nice it would be to include some printed information on one of these topics that reminds the hiring manager of your conversation and your thoughtfulness. This gift along with a short but friendly note of thanks for the interview would surely put your name and face in a prominent place in the interviewer's mind.

Employer Benefits

Even if you don't get the job, you've taken a good and kind step toward another person. That will pay off in one way or the other.

1. It shows enthusiasm for the open position.
2. It displays your diligence and commitment.
3. It demonstrates that you paid attention to the interviewer and his or her interests.
4. It illustrates that you are a thoughtful and generous person with your time and energy.

And finally, such gifts sent periodically, help you keep in touch with your interviewer until the job is filled.
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Jimmy Sweeney is the president of CareerJimmy and author of the brand new "Secret Career Document" job landing system. Jimmy is also the author of several career related books and writes a monthly article titled, "Job Search Secrets."

Visit our friends at Job Interview "Secret" and discover Jimmy Sweeney's breakthrough strategy that will have you standing out from the competition like a Harvard graduate at a local job fair… DURING your next job interview.

Tricky Words

2009-09-17T09:48:00.000-07:00

The following words seem to create confusion. Go through the list to see if it includes words you use and if you are using them correctly. This list will help you find just the right word and its correct usage.

A While, Awhile

While means a period of time, awhile means for a period of time. Thus, the sentence "She will be gone for awhile" is incorrect, as it doubles up on the word for. So, write "She will be gone for a while" or " She will be gone awhile."

Complement, Compliment

Complement is both a verb and a noun, meaning to complete a whole or satisfy a need. Compliment also functions as both verb and noun, meaning praise.

Rahul's efforts complemented those of the rest of the team. (verb)

A complement of fifteen laborers performed the task. (noun)

Rohan complemented her on the cake she had baked.(verb)

His compliment was sincere. (noun)

Due to, Because of

In formal writing, careful writers use because of to indicate a cause-and-effect relationship and keep due to for use after forms of the verb to be.

The driver lost control of the bus because of faulty brakes.

The accident was due to faulty brakes.

Advice, Advise

The noun advice means a suggestion or opinion concerning a course of action. The verb advise means to give advice. Someone who gives advice is either an adviser or an advisor; both spellings being correct.

The Seven Wonders of a World-Class Cover Letter

2009-08-20T12:59:00.000-07:00

Written By Jimmy Sweeney
Author of the brand new, Amazing Cover Letter Creator

Today's hiring managers are being bombarded with job applications, resumes, and cover letters. Some have a mile-high pile of paper on their desks and not nearly enough time to read and respond to it. So what is a dedicated job seeker to do in this tight economy when employers are overworked and overwhelmed?

Make your cover letter stand out from the rest. No, not with pink or blue paper or accompanied with a dozen chocolate chip cookies. But simply by writing a one-page cover letter that features these seven wonders:

1. Three paragraphs on a single page: introduction, your skills and qualifications, and a request for an interview.

2. Three or four well-written sentences in each paragraph. Easy on the eyes.

3. Plenty of 'white space' around your writing so the cover letter is easy to read and comprehend. Create generous margins and double space between paragraphs.

4. Bullets and numbered lists when appropriate. Helps reader scan quickly.

5. Bold-faced type (like this) to emphasize certain points.

6. Correct spelling, usage, and punctuation for a professional appearance.

7. Accurate name, contact info, and signature.

PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER . . .

Write a cover letter that makes your point about the job you want, states your qualifications concisely, and asks for the opportunity to meet in person. Then double check for the 'seven wonders' listed above before sending it off to the hiring manager.

With all these points in place, the employer will not have to 'wonder' what you're all about. It will be clear from your cover letter that you're a person of integrity and dependability––one he or she will want to contact.

If you incorporate the seven wonders of a world-class cover letter into your writing, your cover letter may be the one that attracts the hiring manager's attention enough to single you out for that important call for an interview—and ultimately for the job itself.
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Jimmy Sweeney is the president of CareerJimmy and author of the brand new, "Amazing Cover Letter Creator". Jimmy is also the author of several career related books and writes a monthly article titled, "Job Search Secrets."

"In just 3½ minutes you will have an Amazing Cover Letter guaranteed to cut through YOUR competition like a hot knife through butter!"

Top Ten Tips for Inexperienced Writers

2009-08-10T13:12:00.000-07:00

If you are an inexperienced writer and would like to improve your writing skills, then here are some quick tips to help you get started.

1. Use simple words. Writing that is hard to understand is poorly written, not impressive.

2. Prefer the short word to the long. Keep your sentences also fairly short. Clarity and precision can be achieved if you use short words and short sentences.

3. Make sure that your sentences flow together well. Sometimes, inexperienced writers simply break longer sentences into smaller ones that do not blend together smoothly. Rewrite the sentences to improve the flow of your writing and also to ensure that there is a proper sequencing.

4. Do not use the the same word too frequently, as this can make one’s work sound repetitive.

5. Get yourself a thesaurus and a dictionary. These are extremely helpful tools when you are struggling to find the right word. The correct word usage is extremely important.

6. Do not rely too much on your word processor’s grammar and spelling checking features. Their capabilities are limited. Also, a spell checker is just a tool. It does not know the difference between "they're," "there" and "their." It can not determine whether a particular spelling is the correct one for the context. The easiest way to improve spelling and grammar is to read good books.

7. Target your writing towards an intelligent, enthusiastic, but non-expert reader and your writing confidence will grow. If you present too much information too quickly, chances are that the readers will balk. When you are done, go through the same questions you asked yourself when starting to write. Have you said what you wanted to say? Did you use as few words as possible? Will your readers be still with you at the end? If your answers are all positive, it means you have done a wonderful job.

8. Get a copy of "The Elements of Expression: Putting Thoughts into Words" by Arthur Plotnik. This book is incredibly helpful.

9. There's a saying, "Practice makes perfect". If you want to be a good writer, then keep writing. A little time and lots of practice are all that you need now.

10. Proofread your work over and over again. When you have finished writing, have a professional proofreader check your final work.

The most important thing an inexperienced writer should do is to make the reader's job easier. You should be able to communicate what you want to communicate. An ill-formed, confusing sentence can eventually be understood, but there is no need to waste the reader's time trying to figure out what you have meant. So, practice writing. The more you practice good writing, the easier it becomes. Best of luck!!
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printed and distributed without the consent of the owner
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How To Use Punctuation

2009-08-04T13:09:00.000-07:00

Written by Rumki Sen

The most common mistake people tend to make while writing is in the use of Punctuation. Wrong punctuation can damage the flow of ideas and change meaning, but properly used punctuation not only helps readers understand your meaning but also makes them engrossed in your writing. The following discussion is about some of the frequently misused punctuation marks and what actually their correct application should be.

Use of Apostrophe - Use an apostrophe to show possession, but never put apostrophe in case of possessive pronouns...

Read the whole article on the following URL:
http://www.perfectediting.com/punctuation-rules.htm

Interview Questions - Salary

2009-07-30T13:26:00.000-07:00

In this post, you will find some of the possible job interview questions on salary and how to negotiate your salary to make a successfull job interview.

Interview Questions:

What kind of salary would you require to accept this position?

What kind of salary do you believe you will be earning after five years?

What kind of salary do you think you deserve?

What salary are you seeking?

Salary Negotiation

Research salaries in your field. Contact your professional association to find out what other people are paid for doing the same work.

Be Flexible. When going through a salary negotiation you may not be getting the exact amount of money you deserve. You might have to compromise. You need to handle the stituation carefully. Decide how much you are willing to compromise and what you will do if your boss doesn't offer you a salary you want.

Do not include your salary history on your resume.

Do not lie about your previous salary. Employers can often verify your salary history by contacting your previous employers.

Do not talk about how much money you need. When you are going through salary negotiations, don't tell your hiring manager that you need to make more money because your phone bills are high, your house was expensive, or your son is starting a professional course.

Use of Colon

2009-07-15T13:02:00.000-07:00

The colon is a mark of anticipation, as the following rules illustrate.

Use a colon in the following cases:

1. To introduce a list, summary, long quotation, or final clause that explains or amplifies what precedes the colon

These men have one thing in common: They are all short.

2. Following the words as follows or the following

The recipe called for the following ingredients: unsweetened chocolate, evaporated milk, sugar, flour, salt, eggs, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and chopped nuts.

The concept of "as follows" may be implicit.

"In our country we have three unspeakably precious things: freedom of speech, freedom of conscience, and the prudence never to practice either."

3. In formal salutations

Dear Senator Goldwyn:

4. With ratios

5:2

5. To indicate dialogue

Rebecca: How are you?
Brian: Alive.

6. To separate a title and subtitle

Simple Essays: A Book of English Compositions

Note: Do not place a colon immediately after a verb

Wrong: Prerequisites for the course are: two years of philosophy, knowledge of history, and fluency in English.

Right: Prerequisites for the course are two years of philosophy, knowledge of history, and fluency in English.
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The content of this post can be forwarded, published,
printed and distributed without the consent of the owner
of Perfect Editing Solutions. However, the URL
(http://www.perfectediting.com) must be mentioned wherever this post is reproduced.

Not-So-Secret "Secrets" For a Successful Job Interview

2009-06-29T12:59:00.000-07:00

Written By Jimmy Sweeney
Job Interview "Secret"

Put your best foot forward.
Make a good first impression.
Look your interviewer in the eye.

Pretty standard fare, you might be thinking. You've heard these tips numerous times. But have you considered what they mean and how important they really are? If not, here are some reasons to do so for each one.

Not-So-Secret Secret #1: Put Your Best Foot Forward

The wording here is a bit odd. It implies that we have three or more feet. It would make more sense and be grammatically correct to say: "Put your better foot forward." But knowing what it means is what really matters: To start on a journey or task with purpose and gusto. In other words walk into your interview with a determined step, a smile on your face, a friendly handshake, and expectancy in your mind and heart. Be your best self and trust that your authenticity will compel the interviewer to take a good look at YOU, in person and on paper.

Not-So-Secret Secret #2: Make a Good First Impression

It has been said again and again that the first impression is the last impression. How can that be true? People judge one another by what they see and hear first. It stays with them, regardless of what happens next. So it's worth your time to express your true self rather than to try to impress with affectation and showmanship. Hiring managers are looking for authentic individuals who are honest, open-faced, quick to smile and shake hands firmly, ask intelligent questions, and speak openly about their qualifications for the job in question. Be positive and optimistic. Show your appreciation for the opportunity, get to the point of how you can benefit the company with your skill set, and avoid throwing verbal stones at previous employers or co-workers.

Not-So-Secret Secret #3: Look Your Interviewer in the Eye

You've probably heard the saying, "The eyes are the windows to the soul." And you know it's true when you encounter other people. Our eyes sometimes say more than our words. So when you're in an interview, look the hiring manager in the eye. Listen and focus on what he or she is saying. And when it's your turn to respond, hold your gaze and avoid distracting gestures such as playing with coins in your pocket or flicking your fingernails. One way to lose points fast is to look over the interviewer's shoulder or glance around the room or stare at the floor when you and he or she are engaged in conversation.

The next time you're preparing for a job interview, review these three not-so-secret secrets, put them into practice, and the wait for those three magic words, "WOW…You're Hired!"
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Jimmy Sweeney is the president of CareerJimmy and author of the
brand new "Secret Career Document" job landing system.
Jimmy is also the author of several career related books and
writes a monthly article titled, "Job Search Secrets."

Create Your Own 'Secret Career Document' To Land
Any Job You Desire In The Next 27 Days…
Guaranteed. Click here to learn how!http://pes2004.wowhired.hop.clickbank.net

Reproduction of A Story-Poem

2009-06-17T13:25:00.000-07:00

What you have to do here is to tell in your own words the story which is told in a poem. Therefore, the first thing is to read the poem as a story, so that you know what the story is; and the next is, to tell the same story in your own words and your own way.

HINTS

1. Read the whole poem through, slowly and carefully. If after the first reading, the story is not clear to you, read the poem again, until you are confident about the meaning of the poem.

2. Write down briefly the main facts of the story, in order to help yourself in your narration. Do not leave out any important point.

3. Now, try to write out the story in simple, straightforward English, mentioning the incidents of the story in their natural order.

4. Use your own words in telling the story. Do not just copy the language of the poem. Write the story using simple, plain words.

5. When you have finished writing the story, read the poem once again to see if you have left out any important fact or have stated any point wrongly.

6. Finally, proofread your composition, so that there is no mistake in spelling, grammar and punctuation. Also, see that your sentences are properly constructed, and that the whole composition reads well.

The Secret to Writing a 'Must-Read' Cover Letter!

2009-05-30T02:02:00.000-07:00

Written By Jimmy Sweeney
Amazing Cover Letter Creator

Want to draw attention to your cover letter?
So much so that the hiring manager can't put it down?

Here 's the secret. Meet the employer's needs. Show him or her how you, the job seeker, can benefit his or her company––if you're hired to fill the open position.

For example:

I found out through my friend, Rob Johnson, your company CPA, that you are interested in hiring someone to expand your sales territory in the northwest by garnering new customers prior to the release of your new math textbook for junior high school students, Mathematics for the 21st Century. I'd love to take on this challenge, as I have a master's degree in Mathematics as well as experience in sales. I opened ten new accounts in less than six months while employed by Babcock and Taylor Text-book Company in Florida.

I'd welcome getting together with you in person to talk about how your priorities for this position and my expertise can come together to benefit your company.

Thank you for the opportunity to introduce myself. I'm enthusiastic about meeting in person to see the possibilities of filling this particular opening at your company.

I will follow up with a phone call by the end of the week. You can contact me by phone or email as well. I am available for an interview most afternoons at your convenience. Thank you again for your time and consideration.

Sure-fire Success

When it comes to cover letters, this example, which you can tailor to the specific organization you're writing to, cannot be ignored. Everyone wants to succeed. You want to receive an interview that leads to a job. And the hiring manager wants to interview a man or woman who fits the position now available. If you demonstrate how you can meet that need, you will be called for an interview.

REMEMBER: Hiring managers need you to do their job. They must hire people to fill the openings at their company. Make them look good by showing them the benefits you can bring in a friendly and professional manner.

Let your cover letter work for you, not against you. Don't be afraid to ASK for what you want and remember to focus on what the employer needs. In turn, he or she will give you what you want—an interview for a new job.
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Jimmy Sweeney is the president of CareerJimmy and author of the brand new, Amazing Cover Letter Creator. Jimmy is also the author of several career related books and writes a monthly article titled, "Job Search Secrets."

"In just 3½ minutes you will have an Amazing Cover Letter guaranteed to cut through YOUR competition like a hot knife through butter!"

The Gerund

2009-05-13T05:13:00.000-07:00

A Gerund is that form of the verb which ends in –ing, and has the force of a Noun and a Verb.

Read the following sentence:

Reading is her favourite pastime.

The word reading is formed from the verb read, by adding ing. Here, it is used as the subject of a verb, and hence does the work of a Noun. It is, therefore, a Verb-Noun, and is called a Gerund.

More examples of Gerund:

1. Playing cards is not allowed in the conference hall.

2. She likes reading poetry.

3. Ron is fond of hoarding money.

In sentence 1, the Gerund, like a noun, is the subject of a verb, but like a verb, it also takes an object, thus clearly showing that it has also the force of a verb.

In sentence 2, the Gerund, like a noun, is the object of a verb, but, like a verb, it also takes an object, thus clearly showing that it has also the force of a verb.

In sentence 3, the Gerund, like a noun, is governed by a preposition, but, like a verb, it also takes an object.

As both the Gerund and the Infinitive have the force of a Noun and a Verb, they have the same uses. Thus, in many sentences, either of them may be used; as,

Teach me to dance.
Teach me dancing.

Compare the following 2 sentences:

1. Do you mind my sitting here?
2. Do you mind me sitting here?

In the first sentence, the word preceding the gerund is in the possessive case, while in the second sentence, it is in the objective case. We can use either the possessive case or objective case of nouns and pronouns before gerunds.

Use of the Gerund

1) Subject of a verb; as

Hunting deer is not allowed in this city.

2) Object of a transitive verb; as,

Stop dancing.

3) Object of a preposition; as,

Maria was punished for telling a lie.

4) Complement of a verb; as,

What I most dislike is smoking.

How to Write Business Letters

2009-04-22T13:39:00.000-07:00

Business Letters - Business Letters are much more formal in style than friendly letters. These letters should be clear and to the point. Use certain forms of polite expressions, and at the same time avoid certain phrases of business "jargon". There are different types of Business Letters, including

- Letter of Inquiry
- Letter of Reply
- Letter of Order
- Letter of Acknowledgment
- Letter of Giving Instruction
- Letter of Claim
- Letter of Adjustment
- Letter of Sales
- Letter of Application
- Letter of Advertisement
- Letter to Newspapers

Let us today discuss about Letters of Application and Letters to Newspapers.

Letters of Application – If you are writing a letter applying for employment, remember the following points:

a) A short introduction stating whether you are answering an advertisement or applying on your own responsibility.

b) A background of your education and experience.

c) Tell the employer how you can help his/her company.

d) ASK for an interview clearly and directly.

While writing a letter of application, use the same form as used in business letters.

Letters to Newspapers - These letters should always be addressed to "The Editor", and they usually end with "Yours faithfully".

The form of Salutation is Sir/ Dear Sir.

If you write such a letter and do not want your name to be published, you can sign your name with words like "Interested", "Anxious", "Indignant", "One who knows", etc. Otherwise, you must mention your name and address (in a covering letter) to the Editor, because a respectable newspaper usually does not publish anonymous letters.

The art of letter-writing, therefore, is no mere ornamental accomplishment, but something that every educated person must acquire for practical reasons. So, regular practice in letter writing will help you master the art.

The Correct Use of Some Adjectives

2009-04-07T22:06:00.000-07:00

An Adjective is defined as a word used with a noun to add something for its meaning.

The correct use of some Adjectives

Some, Any

To express quantity or degree, some is used normally in affirmative sentences, whereas any is used in negative or interrogative sentences.

Rebecca will buy some bananas.
I will not buy any mangoes.
Has he brought any mangoes?

Note: Any can be used after if in affirmative sentences.

If you need any help, give me call.

Some is used in questions which are offers/ requests or which expect the answer "yes".

Offer – Will you have some custard?

Request – Could you lend her some money?

I expect you did – Did you buy some clothes?

Each, Every

Each and every are similar in meaning, but every is stronger word than each; it means, 'each without exception'. Each directs attention to the individuals forming any group and is used only when the number in the group is limited and definite. Every directs attention to the total group and is used when the number is indefinite.

Every chair was taken.
Ten girls were seated on each bench.

Little, A little, The little

Little = not much (i.e. hardly any)

David showed little concern for his nephew.

A little – some though not much.

A little tact would have saved the situation.

The little – not much, but all there is.

The little information she had was not quite reliable.
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The content of this post can be forwarded, published,
printed and distributed without the consent of the owner
of Perfect Editing Solutions. However, the URL
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mentioned wherever this post is reproduced.

Cover Letter Tip: "Thank You" Magic

2009-03-29T22:17:00.000-07:00

As you write your cover letter to prospective employers, be sure to tuck in a few words of gratitude for the opportunity to introduce yourself and your skills, even as you ask for an interview for the job you want.

"Gratitude is the rosemary of the heart,"
according to 19th century American writer, Minna Antrim.

Keep in mind that the hiring manager has no obligation to respond to your cover letter. But if you sprinkle your letter with a bit of 'rosemary' he or she won't be able to resist contacting you. Why? Because you will be among the very few who are more concerned with gratitude than greed. You will display your good heart and your interest in others, not just yourself. This small addition to any cover letter will put you in a class by yourself and it will be a signal that you are someone who would be a welcome addition to the company staff.

Some Ways to Say 'Thank you' Within Your Cover Letter

Use clear and simple language in your cover letter to convey your appreciation while at the same time displaying your talent and skills for the job you are interested in.

1. Thank you for taking a moment to consider my cover letter and resume. I appreciate how busy you are.
2. I appreciate the time you give to prospective employees such as me. I do not take it for granted.
3. I welcome a chance to talk with you about my skills and your expectations. Thank you for this opportunity to hear about your company and to share how I might fit into your plans.
4. I appreciate the job application guidelines you provided online. I'd like very much the opportunity to express my thanks in person for making it easy to introduce myself and my background and to find out how I can contribute to your company.

Avoid gushing or being sentimental. Focus on clarity and sincerity. You have what it takes to land the job you want. Make gratitude a high priority and you will succeed.
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Written by Jimmy Sweeney, the president of CareerJimmy and author of the brand new, "Amazing Cover Letter Creator." Jimmy is also the author of several career related books and writes a monthly article titled, "Job Search Secrets."

Visit Jimmy on the web at Amazing Cover Letters for your "instant" cover letter today. In just 3½ minutes you will have an amazing cover letter guaranteed to cut through YOUR competition like a hot knife through butter!

Some Conjunctions and Their Uses

2009-03-18T22:32:00.000-07:00

"A Conjunction is a word which merely joins together sentences, and sometimes words."

Some Conjunctions and their uses:

Since, as a Conjunction means-

1) From and after the time when; as

Many things have happened since I left college.
I have never seen her since that sad incident happened.

Note: Since, when used as a Conjunction in this sense, should be preceded by a verb in the present perfect tense, and followed by a verb in the simple past tense.

2) Seeing that, in as much as; as

Since you will not work, you shall not eat.

Or is used-

1) To introduce an alternative, as

She must work or starve.

Note: There may be several alternatives, each joining to the preceding one by or, presenting a choice between any two in the series.

You may study medicine or architecture or engineering, or you may enter into business.

2) To introduce an alternative name or synonym; as,

The violin or fiddle has become the main instrument of the modern orchestra.

3) To mean otherwise; as,

We must go now or we will be late.

4) As nearly equivalent to and; as,

The soldiers were not lacking in strength or courage, but they were badly fed.

If is used to mean-

1) On the condition or supposition that; as,

If it rains, I will not go.

2) Admitting that; as,

If I am stupid, I am at least honest.

3) Whether; as,

I asked her if she would help me.

4) Whenever; as,

If you have any doubt, let me know.

If is also used to express wish or surprise; as,

If I only knew!

Than as a Conjunction, follows adjectives and adverbs in the comparative degree; as,

I see you oftener than (I see) her.

While is used to mean-

1) During the time that, as long as; as

While she was sleeping, a thief entered the house.

2) At the same time that; as,

The boys danced while the girls played.

3) Whereas; as

While Tom has no money to spend, Peter has nothing to spend on.

Only as a Conjunction, means except that, but, were it not (that); as,

A very handsome man, only he squints a little.
The evening is pleasant, only rather cold.

How to Write Social Letters

2009-02-17T12:52:00.000-08:00

Every educated person should know how to write a clear and readable letter. So, let us now discuss how to write Friendly Letters and Notes of Invitations, both of which fall under the main category, Social Letters.

Friendly Letters - Letters to relations and intimate friends are informal and free-and-easy as compared to essays. Just as what we do in a friendly chat, in a friendly letter too, we can touch on many subjects and in whichever order we like. We can also use colloquial expressions which we can never even think of using in formal essays or letters.

But, this does not mean that we can be careless. However easy and conversational our style may be, we must keep in mind the rules of spelling, grammar and punctuation as we remember them while writing the most formal essay. Mistakes in spelling, grammar and punctuation at once stamp a letter-writer as uneducated. So, proofread your letter several times before you send it to someone.

In friendly letters, the proper form of address is the name (without surname) of the person to whom you are writing, prefixed by such qualifying terms as Dear, My Dear, Dearest, etc. For example:- My dear Richard, etc. But, if you are writing to an ordinary friend, who is much older than you, or of a superior rank, it is respectful to use a prefix like Mr., Mrs., etc. For example:- Dear Mrs. Anjana Singh.

The forms of subscription are varied. You may use words like Yours affectionately, Your loving son or brother or friend. In concluding letters to friends and acquaintances whom you address as Mr. or Mrs., you should use the word sincerely in the subscription; and this may be preceded by With Kind Regards.

Please note that sincerely should not be used in letters beginning with the formal Dear Sir, after which the proper word of subscription is faithfully or truly.

Notes of Invitations - A formal invitation is generally written in the third person and should not contain any heading, any salutation, and any complimentary close. If you write such a letter, mention your name in the body of the letter, whereas write the address and the date to the left, below the communication.

If you reply to such a note, write it also in the third person, repeating the date and time mentioned in the invitation.

Informal notes of invitation, acceptance and refusal are like ordinary friendly letters, though using more formal language. Address them to the recipient by name and use any of the following close: Yours sincerely, Yours affectionately.

The Sequence of Tenses

2009-02-04T12:31:00.000-08:00

The Sequence of Tenses is the principle in accordance with which the Tense of the verb in a subordinate clause follows the Tense of the verb in the principal clause.

1. A Past Tense in the Principle Clause is followed by a Past Tense in the subordinate clause; as,

Philip replied that he would come.
She never thought that she should see him again.

However, there are two exceptions to this rule:-

A) A Past Tense in the Principal clause may be followed by a Present Tense in the subordinate clause when the subordinate clause expresses a universal truth; as,

Galileo maintained that the earth moves round the sun.
Robert said that honesty is the best policy.

B) When the subordinate clause is introduced by than, even if there is a Past Tense in the principal clause, it may be followed by any Tense required by the sense in the subordinate clause; as,

Mary liked you better than she likes me.
Rohan valued his friendship more than he values mine.

A Present or Future Tense in the Principal Clause may be followed by any Tense required by the sense; as,

Peter thinks that Maria is happy.
Peter thinks that Maria was happy.
Peter thinks that Maria will be happy.

Peter will think that Maria is happy.
Peter will think that Maria was happy.
Peter will think that Maria will be happy.

10 Most Common Resume Writing Mistakes

2009-01-27T13:57:00.000-08:00

Personal information or picture

Leave off the personal information or picture. Do not include your age, gender, race, marital status, hunting skills or picture. These details do not determine your ability to perform your job and must not occupy a place within your resume.

Using a template design for your resume

You should never use a template to create a resume. Your resume should be uniquely designed to highlight your unique qualifications and achievements to set you apart from other candidates.

Remuneration

Do not mention details of your expected remuneration. Giving this detail will either undersell you or overprice you.

Lies

There are many risks involved in lying. Once the untruth is discovered, you will lose your job. If there are areas that you prefer not to disclose, do not mention about them in your resume. Just don't lie - be honest.

Irrelevant or out dated information

Don't list irrelevant work experience just to fill in space. Keep information relevant to field and industry. Also, if the work you did many years ago is not related to a job you are applying for now, do not mention it. This information is out dated.

Omitting dates of employment

Never omit dates of employment in order to hide your age or cover up an unstable work history. The hiring managers will know instantly you're trying to hide something. However, you can leave off jobs held for a short duration or omit the earliest part of your work history to hide employment gaps and periods of job hopping.

Voluntary work

Unless there is a direct and positive link with the job you are applying for, omit this out of your resume. Some employers may appreciate your commitment to social work but others may find it as a potential distraction.

Long paragraphs

Write short, easy-to-read, statements about your skills, knowledge, abilities and achievements.

References

This information is unnecessary for your resume. Present it later when this will be requested of you as your application progresses to the final stages.

Poor grammar and spelling

Spelling and grammatical errors can automatically disqualify a resume from consideration. Proofread and then proofread again.

Kinds of Adverbs

2009-01-14T07:09:00.000-08:00

An Adverb is a word which modifies the meaning of a Verb, an Adjective or another Adverb.

Kinds of Adverbs

Adverbs may be divided into the following classes, according to their meaning:-

1. Adverbs of Time (which show when)

She hurt her ankle yesterday.
Tom has spoken to her already.

2. Adverbs of Frequency (which show how often).

Rahul often makes mistakes.
I always try to do my best.

3. Adverbs of Place (which show where)

She looked up.
My mother is out.

4. Adverbs of Manner (which show how or in what manner)

The essay is well written.
The man works hard.

5. Adverbs of Degree or Quantity (which show how much, or in what degree or to what extent).

Rebecca sings pretty well.
You are quite wrong.

6. Adverbs of Affirmation and Negation

Mr. Das certainly went.
I do not know him.

7. Adverbs of Reason

Paul therefore left college.
Saira is hence unable to perform the task.

Some of the above Adverbs may belong to more than one class.

Thomas sings delightfully. (Adverb of Manner)
The water is delightfully cool. (Adverb of Degree)

Don't go far. (Adverb of Place)
Reema is far better now. (Adverb of Degree)

Now we will see that Adverbs are divided into three classes according to their use:

1) Simple Adverbs - Simple Adverbs are used to modify the meaning of a verb, an adjective, or an adverb. For eg.,

She is quite wrong.

2) Interrogative Adverbs - Interrogative Adverbs are used to ask questions. For eg.,

How many students are in his class?

3) Relative Adverbs - Relative Adverbs refer back to a noun as their antecedent. For eg.,

Show me the house where he was born.

Therefore,

A Simple Adverb merely modifies some word.

An Interrogative Adverb not only modifies some word, but also introduces a question.

A Relative Adverb not only modifies some word, but also refers back to some antecedent.

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2008-12-31T03:44:00.000-08:00

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Paraphrasing

2008-12-22T12:28:00.000-08:00

The word "paraphrase" has been derived from a Greek word, meaning "equivalent sentence". It is defined as "restatement of the sense of a passage in other words."

Method of Procedure

1. Read the passage slowy and carefully until you have completely understood its general meaning. You may read the passage repeatedly if one reading does not help you to understand the gist.

2. Next, read the passage again with a view to its details. You need to express not only the substance, but also the details, of the passage in your own words.

3. Reproduce the passage in simple and direct English, keeping in mind the main gist of the passage.

4. Treat the passage as a whole. Do not work word by word, or line by line.

5. Rearrange, if required, the order of sentences, and even of the whole passage, if this helps in making the meaning clear.

6. Break up a long sentence into many short ones, or combine the several short sentences into one long, if that helps the whole to be more easily understood.

7. Do not change words just for the sake of change. Do not change the words in the original that are already simple in meaning. Change only those words that are uncommon, difficult and technical. Never substitute a difficult or complicated word for a simple and familiar word.

8. Explanatory notes have no place in a paraphrase. If any sentence in the paraphrase requires a note to expalin it, rewrite the sentence until it explains itself.

9. Write out a rough draft of your paraphrase. Proofread the draft carefully. Correct any mistake in spelling, grammar, punctuation, idiom, etc. Make the draft completely error-free.

10. Write down the final draft neatly if you feel the paraphrase is as good as you can make it.

eBook Secrets Exposed!

2008-11-28T12:38:00.000-08:00

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Verbs of Incomplete Predication

2008-11-19T13:40:00.000-08:00

The verbs in both the following sentences are Intransitive:

1. The baby sleeps.
2. The baby seems happy.

But, the first sentence "The baby sleeps" makes complete sense, whereas the other sentence "The baby seems happy" does not make complete sense.

The Intransitive Verb seems require a word (e.g., happy) to make the sense complete. Such a verb is called a Verb of Incomplete Predication.

The word happy, which is required to make the sense complete, is called the Complement of the Verb or the Completion of the Predicate.

Verbs of Incomplete Predication usually express the idea of being, becoming, seeming, appearing. The Complement usually consists of a Noun (called a Predicative Noun) or an Adjective (called a Predicative Adjective). When the Complement describes the subject, as in the following sentences, it is called a Subjective Complement.

1. The earth is round.
2. Roses smell sweet.

Note: When the Subjective Complement is a noun, it is in the same case as the Subject, i.e., in the Nominative Case.

Certain Transitive verbs require, besides an Object, a Complement to complete their predication; as,

1. Her parents named her Priya.
2. The girls made Shreya captain.

Here, the Complement describes the Object, and is, therefore, called an Objective Complement.

Note: when the Objective Complement is a noun, it is in the Objective Case in agreement with the object.

A Unique Cover Letter Tip for a Tough Job Market

2008-11-10T11:50:00.000-08:00

Amazing Cover Letter Creator

Think of your cover letter as a knock on the door. When someone opens the door you're standing there ready to introduce yourself and to share your qualifications for the job opening. This is a proactive, direct way to win attention, but also the smart way. Hiring managers are busy. If you want to get noticed you must be clear and direct, positive and professional.

Here's a unique cover letter tip for this tough job market: Tie your cover letter to your resume by mentioning a particular skill or accomplishment the hiring manager can relate to for his company. For example, suppose you are applying for a job as a regional manager of a retail shoe company. You've had excellent experience training sales people and retaining them. Turnover is low and morale is high under your leadership, thus affecting the bottom line in a positive, profitable way.

You could bring this information to the attention of the
hiring manager in this clever and effective way:

I would welcome meeting with you to discuss your need for a regional manager in the area where my family and I will be moving on September 1. I've been a shoe store manager for three years and during my time with The Right Fit shoe store I have trained five new salespeople who have remained with me the entire time. One salesman, Mike Johnson, was so enthusiastic about his job he gave me permission to quote him. "I can't imagine a more pleasant place to work. I like the people here, especially Mark Smith, the manager, and I can earn a good living." Now Mike Johnson is ready to assume my position when I leave!

As you can see from this paragraph, the job hunter, Mark Smith, is making clear to the hiring manager, his own qualifications, as well as the benefit to the company he hopes to work for by using a testimonial from an employee he has worked with at his previous job. If you were the hiring manager wouldn't you want to interview this individual? I certainly would. He not only sounds like a nice guy—but one who knows how to train and retain sales people which increases staff morale and revenue for the company.

A well-written cover letter tied to the accompanying resume in this fashion is certain to win an interview for the writer. Try it for yourself and then get ready to answer the phone.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Written by Jimmy Sweeney, the president of CareerJimmy and author of the brand new, "Amazing Cover Letter Creator." Jimmy is also the author of several career related books and writes a monthly article titled, "Job Search Secrets."

Visit Jimmy on the web at Amazing Cover Letters for your "instant" cover letter today. In just 3½ minutes you will have an amazing cover letter guaranteed to cut through YOUR competition like a hot knife through butter!