Carmen O. - "Reader Relevance"

You may not think that giving a speech and writing a personal statement for Graduate School are comparable tasks; however, they are similar in many ways. Not only do they both have an audience, but their origins are the same as well……they both begin with a blank sheet of paper and an idea.

Whether your “audience” is a classmate or a Graduate School Admissions Committee, you will want to present all information in an organized fashion. One of the greatest tips I follow is to ask myself “what, where, when, who, why, and how” before I begin a particular writing assignment. By doing this, I am putting myself in the reader’s shoes and answering any prospective questions that may arise.

Another way to analyze an audience (or reader) is by carefully considering the following points:

• What is the level of expertise and/or level of education that your reader will possess on the specific topic or subject (i.e. you will want to be solid on your research);

• Cultural differences (i.e. any obvious cultural difference should be in kept mind when writing);

• Attitudes (i.e. is this going to be a predominantly female or male audience?);

• Expectations (i.e. what does the audience expect or what are they looking for?); and,

• Context in which the document will be read (i.e. will the message be relayed appropriately?)

While it is impractical to know the specific likes and dislikes of each of your readers, you should know that you do have the ability to hold the reader’s attention and allow them a glimpse of your personality without being offensive if you adhere to these tips when preparing your document or presentation.

If you are serious about informing, educating, persuading or entertaining your reader, or an entire audience, then these are the tips for you.

Attached is a YouTube video prepared by Admissions Consultants.com that provides useful insight on analyzing a very important audience (or reader) - a Law School Admissions Committee.