Ever find yourself with something to say and later realize that what you meant is not quite how you delivered it? Oh crap. I have done this and sometimes with great embarassment.
The same applies to writing. At work, I’ve learned to write important emails and save them as a draft; coming back later to re-read what I’ve drafted helps me to edit and clarify my commentary. Usually, I edit out 3/4 of what was written and often, I start over.
The headlines below were forwarded to me via email so I can’t credit the author .. but I would if I knew who it was.
Regardless, while many made me chuckle, most cause me to ponder the importance of pausing – saving – and reviewing once more before hitting the “publish” or “send” buttons.
Actual (poorly-written) Headlines
- Something Went Wrong in Jet Crash, Expert Says
- Panda Mating Fails; Veterinarian Takes Over
- Include Your Children when Baking Cookies
- Plane Too Close to Ground, Crash Probe Told
- Stolen Painting Found by Tree
- Two Sisters Reunited After 18 Years at Checkout Counter
- War Dims Hope for Peace
- If Strike Isn’t Settled Quickly, It May Last a While
- Cold Wave Linked to Temperatures
- Red Tape Holds Up New Bridges
- Kids Make Nutritious Snacks
- Hospitals are Sued by 7 Foot Doctors
- Man Struck By Lightning Faces Battery Charge
How about you? Do you find yourself carefully editing your words?