If you’ve written non-fiction and want to establish yourself as both an excellent writer and an expert in your field, submit short articles for use by other websites or ezines covering your area of expertise. You may want to use a synopsis of one of your chapters as article, so your readers have a glimpse of topic(s) your book covers. There are several websites which actively seek short, well-written articles covering a number of topics; some of most popular are: home improvement, family and relationships, law, business (traditional and internet), financial management and investing, and religion (from a practical perspective, rather than theoretical – homilitical discussions.) Be sure to include name of your book with a link to your sales site in “Author’s Biography” area.

If you are a poet or have written a screenplay, offer free performances of your work. In Indianapolis, one Starbuck’s offers musicians and performers chance to give renditions one night a week. Libraries, community playhouses, and even some restaurants may be open to this suggestion.

Finally, if you already have a book in print and it is selling, consider adding first chapter of your other book, along with sales information or a prepublication purchase discount, as an “extra added attraction” at your second (and subsequent) printings. If your reader liked your first book, they’re sure to love your second one.

Although he is not tall, he is a good basketball player. While he listened to radio, he finished his homework.

A writer’s choice between “since” and “because” also involves possibility of a reference to time. Many people use “since” when they really mean “because,” this is rarely a correct use of word “since.” When choosing a word to suggest “from a definite past time until now”1 use “since.” If you are not referring to time, “because” should be word you choose. Try using “because,” if your sentence doesn’t make sense then you probably want to use “since.” In examples below two incorrect sentences do not sound correct, while correct sentences actually sound better.

Incorrect:He had few friends since he was too annoying. Correct:He had few friends because he was too annoying. Incorrect:He has not ridden a bicycle because 1990. Correct:He has not ridden a bicycle since 1990.

Whether you are writing an essay for school or you are writing a speech for your CEO, choose your words carefully because what people hear or read from you can make a big difference in their opinion about you and your intelligence. For anyone writing, regardless of topic, length, or purpose, ask for assistance if you need it, not doing so can have serious repercussions on your reputation.

1 Merriam-Webster Online. 20 January 2005. http://m-w.com/