THE ARMY WRITING STYLE

1. Standard:

Effective Army writing is writing that the reader can understand in a single, rapid reading. It is clear,
concise, well-organized, right to the point, and generally free of errors. (AR 600-70)

2. Focus: Think before you write.

Make these two changes now:

a. Put the main point (bottom line) up front.

b. Use the active voice.

Writing is a process--not an event. To place the main point up front, you must know what it is. The key is,
first, to understand the purpose for the document, and then, second, to ensure that you have gathered and recorded
all of the information and ideas necessary to achieve the purpose, “to answer the mail.” This gathering and
recording of information and ideas is the first step of the writing process required by the Army for writers to
achieve the standard. Once you are confident that you’ve captured all of the necessary information for your
document, the second step is to organize it.

3. Structure: Write it.

a. Use the appropriate format. (See AR 25-50 or your unit’s guidelines for format.)

b. Open with a statement that ensures the reader’s understanding of the document’s purpose. This will be
your recommendation, conclusion, or your most important information.

c. Organize your information in the most logical manner. The information itself and the format will help you
to determine the best organization.

d. Clearly separate each section, using paragraphs, which many times will be short, that cover just one topic.
Use section titles or paragraph headings, if appropriate.

4. Style: Edit it.

a. The purpose of writing is to express your ideas, not to impress your reader. It is the clear expression of
good ideas that impresses the reader.

b. Use concrete, specific words, and keep in mind that the percentage of long words--words with three or
more syllables--influence the reading grade level of the document.

c. Compose each sentence to communicate one complete idea. Generally, a reader will have to translate a
sentence any longer than around 30 words. Average sentence length also influences reading grade level, so make
each word count.

d. Use the active voice primarily; use the passive voice only when it is appropriate.

e. Use “I,” “you,” and “we” instead of “this command,” “this office,” or “this headquarters.”

f. Avoid jargon.

g. Use correct spelling, punctuation, and grammar.