Brief, Concise, and Clear: The Basics of Writing for Public Relations and Communications

Brief, Concise, and Clear: The Basics of Writing for Public Relations and Communications is a primer text that helps students transition from academic writing to writing that will help them succeed professionally. The text includes information about the craft of professional writing for general businesses as well as strategies used specifically for public relations audiences.

Students are first introduced to the practice of public relations along with models, approaches, and career options. The text discusses writing mechanics, the need for good writing, and writing tone, as well as the importance of word choice, grammar, punctuation, and the process of editing, refining, and rewriting. The final chapter provides templates for business letters, press releases, web copy, and social media outlets.

Successfully combining instruction on writing mechanics with an understanding of the demands of writing for public relations, Brief, Concise, and Clear is well suited to courses in the field, as well as those in advertising, marketing, and general business.

Andrew Corner teaches public relations and writing in the College of Communication Arts and Sciences at Michigan State University. Prior to joining the faculty, Professor Corner provided strategic counseling and account management services for clients in numerous industries through his work with a statewide issue management consultancy in Michigan. He developed his public relations expertise in his decade with a regional hospital system, where he worked in media relations, crisis management, and internal communication programs. Professor Corner holds a master's degree in public relations management and is accredited by the Public Relations Society of America.