CORRECTNESS:

BUSINESS WRITING PRINCIPLES

OR

SEVEN C’s IN BUSINESS COMMUNICATION

1. CORRECTNESS:
Normally it is assumed that correctness only refers to spelling, punctuation and grammar etc. but
business Communication is something more than that. Following guideline should be considered
for achieving correctness.
(a) Use the correct level of language
(b) Include only accurate facts and figures.
(c) Maintain acceptable writing mechanics.
(a) Use the Correct Level of Language:
There are usually three levels of language that is formal, informal and sub-standard.
Informal level of language is the language of business letters, memos and reports. Formal
language is used for writing research papers and legal documents etc. Sub-standard level of
language is not used in any type of communication because it either refers to the street
language or unacceptable language.
Incorrect: We thank you in anticipation of this courtesy and assure you that it will be a
pleasure to serve you in similar manners.
Correct: I will appreciate your helping us. Let me know when I can return the favour.
(b) Include Only Accurate Facts and Figures:
The writer of a business message should specifically be careful when he is quoting any fact
or figure. The situation is more critical when the reader relies on the accuracy of facts and
figures. An incorrect figure may lead even to the loss of customer, because customer might
feel that he is not dealing with business like people. For example if a bank manager
provides a wrong balance figure to his account holder, the result might be disastrous for the
bank.
(c) Maintain Acceptable Writing Mechanics:

Writing mechanics include a number of considerations. For instance, use of grammar rules,
sentences structure, composition, punctuation, spelling and all other considerations. Which
form the structure of English Language?