Defining Good Writing

What is good writing?

What does it look like?

Good writing is hard to define. Certain aspects of writing are subjective, while the rest are objective. Also, there are different types of writing. This definition will look at the overall perspective on writing as a whole.

From a grammatical standpoint, good writing is writing that properly utilizes grammar, word order, structure, and organization. Essentially, it has to make sense. If the writer of a certain piece does not take the time to check the seemingly small details of whether or not words are spelled correctly or commas are in the right place, it can effect the entire piece. Proper grammar and sentence structure add a professional air to writing, thereby making it more credible or respectable. Without it, a piece can become confusing, unprofessional, or easily refuted.

More subjectively speaking, good writing should cause readers to think. It is organized in a way that creates a flow from one idea to the next, prompting understanding. Good writing should have the capability to change readers' perspectives, or at least challenge them to question their original views. It should successfully capture persuasion, information, or whatever other type of goal it is trying to attain (i.e. a newspaper article should inform, an advertisement should persuade, etc.).