Dear Basic Learning Systems Subscribers,

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Marsha
Basic Learning Systems
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(888) 204-3600

Dear Readers,

We were wondering if you have been receiving our weekly tips in the
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All the best,
Marsha Freedman, President
Basic Learning Systems
http://www.basic-learning.com
888-204-3600

Dear Subcribers,

Look for our FREE Weekly Writing Tips in your e-mail box from Basic
Learning Systems on Tuesdays from now on. Please add info@basic-
learning.com to your contact list today, so the tips do not end up in
your Spam folder.

Have a wonderful weekend!
Marsha
Basic Learning Systems
http://www.basic-learning.com
888-204-3600

Dear Subscribers,

Thank you for your patience. Getting the weekly tips newsletter
together has been more work than anticipated. By next week, you
should receive the tips in a very attractive newsletter format, as
well as this way through Yahoo Groups. (If you do not have html, you
will not be able to see the colors, graphics, etc.)The following
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The e-mail will be from info@..., so please add this
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Indefinite pronouns refer to nonspecific persons or things. The
following indefinite pronouns should be treated as singular, even if
they seem to refer to plural objects: anybody, anything, anyone,
each, either, everybody, everyone, everything, neither, nobody, no
one, somebody, someone, something.

For example:
1.  Each of my colleagues has an office.
2.  Everybody wants to see the new proposal.

The following indefinite pronouns can be plural or singular depending
on the noun to which they refer: all, any, none, some.

For example:
1.  None of the directors were at the meeting.
2.  None of his advice makes sense.

Improve your skills and value as an employee! Our E-workbooks cover a
wide range of topics, such as Listening, Communication, Change,
Dealing With Difficult People, Telephone Skills and MANY MORE!
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Exercise:
Select the correct form of the verb to go with the indefinite pronoun:
1.  Everybody who signed up for the office party (was/were) there.
2.  Anyone who needed additional training (was/were) provided an
opportunity to attend classes.
3.  All ordered materials (has been/have been) delivered.
4.  Some of this report (has/have) to be rewritten.

See our Web site at http://www.basic-learning.com

******************************************************************

Quote of the week:

Out of difficulties grow miracles. – Jean de La Bruyère, 1645-1696,
French Writer

Send us your favorite quote and you may see it posted here.

******************************************************************

Vocabulary word of the week:

Infringement (noun) [in-FRINJ-mint] - a violation of an agreement or
regulation, an encroachment on a personal right.

Requiring employees to stay in the building during their lunch breaks
is an infringement on their rights.

******************************************************************

Answers:
1.  Everybody who signed up for the office party was there.
2.  Anyone who needed additional training was provided an opportunity
to attend classes.
3.  All ordered materials have been delivered.
4.  Some of this report has to be rewritten.

*******************************************************************

Professional effectiveness E-workbooks, Printed Workbooks, Training
Kits, On-site Training & Online Courses.

Books: Bull's Eye Business Writing - a Self-paced Workbook; How To
Improve Your Business Reading Skills; Effective
Communication/Interpersonal Skills; Overcoming Presentation Anxiety
and Dealing with Difficult People.

Basic Learning Systems, Inc. TOLL FREE-888-204-3600
See our Web site at http://www.basic-learning.com

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address, please send us the one you used when you signed up.

We all use the following abbreviations, but do we know exactly what
they stand for?

ad hoc—   meaning "for a particular use"
CV—   curriculum vitae, meaning "course of one's life," a resume
e.g.—   exempli gratia, meaning "for example"
et al.—   et alii, meaning "and other people"
etc.—   et cetera, meaning "and other things," and "and so forth"
i.e.—   id est, meaning "that is"
re—   meaning "in the matter of," "concerning"
R.S.V.P.— repondez s'il vous plait, meaning "please reply"

****************************************************************

Improve your skills and value as an employee! Our E-workbooks cover a
wide range of topics, such as Listening, Communication, Change,
Dealing With Difficult People, Telephone Skills and MANY MORE!
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See our Web site at http://www.basic-learning.com

EXCITING NEWS! Basic Learning Systems will be changing the way in
which you receive your weekly tips e-mail. We will be moving from
Yahoo Groups to an attractive newsletter format in the next week or
two. Please add info@... to your contact list, so this
e-mail will not be viewed as Spam. For the first two weeks, we will
send out the tips both ways to be sure that you have received them.
Let us know how you like the new look and format.

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Exercise:
Fill in the blanks.
1.   We created an ___________ committee to work on the Christmas
party.
2.   Production is entering a new cycle, _________ distribution
within five additional districts.
3.   In the past year, the company created a number of different
products, ______________ the STN Locator, PRT-12, the zonal strip,
_____________.

See our Web site at http://www.basic-learning.com

******************************************************************

Quote of the week:

Experience is one thing you can't get for nothing. – Oscar Wilde,
1854-1900, Irish Dramatist/Novelist/Poet

Send us your favorite quote and you may see it posted here.

******************************************************************

Vocabulary word of the week:

Unilateral [yu-NI-la-te-ral] (adj.) – a decision or agreement made by
one party without the consent of the others.
Ex.: Mr. Price made a unilateral decision to close the office at 3:00
p.m.

******************************************************************

Answers:

1.   We created an ad hoc committee to work on the Christmas party.
2.   Production is entering a new cycle, i.e. distribution within
five additional districts.
3.   In the past year, the company created a number of different
products, e.g. the STN Locator, PRT-12, the zonal strip, etc.

*******************************************************************

Professional effectiveness E-workbooks, Printed Workbooks, Training
Kits, On-site Training & Online Courses.

Books: Bull's Eye Business Writing - a Self-paced Workbook; How To
Improve Your Business Reading Skills; Effective
Communication/Interpersonal Skills; Overcoming Presentation Anxiety
and Dealing with Difficult People.

Basic Learning Systems, Inc. TOLL FREE-888-204-3600
See our Web site at http://www.basic-learning.com

We never send these tips out unless you have requested them.
If you do not want to receive them in the future, please send
a message with CANCEL-TIPS in the subject to:
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address, please send us the one you used when you signed up.

When combining two independent clauses into one sentence, use one of
the transitional expressions listed below and put a semicolon after
the first independent clause.


Accordingly
However
Besides
Moreover
Consequently
Namely
For example
Nevertheless
Furthermore
On the contrary
Otherwise
Therefore

Hence
Then
Thus
So
Yet

Transitional expressions are typically followed by a comma, except
for hence, then, thus, so, and yet.

Example: We have received an oral go-ahead; however, we are still
waiting for the written confirmation.

****************************************************************

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EXCITING NEWS! Basic Learning Systems will be changing the way in
which you receive your weekly tips e-mail. We will be moving from
Yahoo Groups to an attractive newsletter format in the next week or
two. Please add info@... to your contact list, so this
e-mail will not be viewed as Spam. For the first two weeks, we will
send out the tips both ways to be sure that you have received them.
Let us know how you like the new look and format.

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Exercise:
Combine the following independent clauses with the transitional
expressions to create sentences.

1.  The new printing procedures are now in effect. Orders placed
using the old protocol will no longer be accepted. (Therefore)
2.  Our department is still experiencing difficulties with the
copier. We are unable to staple multi-page documents. (Namely)
3.  The document was reviewed by two individuals. It still contains
errors. (Yet)

******************************************************************

Quote of the week:


Anyone who keeps the ability to see beauty never grows old.
--Franz Kafka

Send us your favorite quote and you may see it posted here.

******************************************************************

Vocabulary word of the week:

Reticence [RE-ti-sens] (noun) - a trait of being uncommunicative; not
offering more than necessary.
Ex: Andrew's reticence makes it difficult for his team members to
collaborate with him.

******************************************************************

Answers:
1.  The new printing procedures are now in effect; therefore, orders
placed using the old protocol will no longer be accepted.
2.  Our department is still experiencing difficulties with the
copier; namely, we are unable to staple multi-page documents.
3.  The document was reviewed by two individuals; yet it still
contains errors.

*******************************************************************

Professional effectiveness E-workbooks, Printed Workbooks, Training
Kits, On-site Training & Online Courses.

Books: Bull's Eye Business Writing - a Self-paced Workbook; How To
Improve Your Business Reading Skills; Effective
Communication/Interpersonal Skills; Overcoming Presentation Anxiety
and Dealing with Difficult People.

Basic Learning Systems, Inc. TOLL FREE-888-204-3600
See our Web site at http://www.basic-learning.com

We never send these tips out unless you have requested them.
If you do not want to receive them in the future, please send
a message with CANCEL-TIPS in the subject to:
Cancel-tips@... If you now have a new e-mail
address, please send us the one you used when you signed up.

Abbreviations of academic degrees require a period after each
abbreviated word.  There should be no space after the periods.

B.A.    Bachelor of Arts
B.S.    Bachelor of Science
M.A.    Master of Arts
M.B.A.  Master of Business Administration
Ph.D.   Doctor of Philosophy
Ed.D.   Doctor of Education
M.Div.  Master of Divinity
M.D.    Medical Doctor
D.D.S.  Doctor of Dental Surgery
R.N.    Registered Nurse

Academic degrees are placed after the person's name and separated
from it with a comma.
Ex.:  Dean Barbara Glay, Ph.D.
	 Peter Cory, M.B.A.

****************************************************************

NEW SERVICE! Check out our wide selection of convenient and
affordable online business, management, and leadership courses at
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EXCITING NEWS! Basic Learning Systems will be changing the way in
which you receive your weekly tips e-mail. We will be moving from
Yahoo Groups to an attractive newsletter format in the next week or
two. Please add info@... to your contact list, so this
e-mail will not be viewed as Spam. For the first two weeks, we will
send out the tips both ways to be sure that you have received them.
Let us know how you like the new look and format.

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Correct the following:
1.  Doctor of Philosophy Lisa Gray, Ph.D.
2.  Ken Porter MBA EDD
3.  Don Smith, Bachelor of Science

******************************************************************

Quote of the week:

This week's quote is from one of our readers, Paul Martin, of Howard
Community College:

"The happiest people don't necessarily have the best of everything;
they just make the best of everything they have." – Source unknown

Send us your favorite quote and you may see it posted here.

******************************************************************

Vocabulary word of the week:

Retroactive – [re-TRO-ak-tiv] – taking effect on a date before
enactment. Ex.: The increase in salary is retroactive from the
beginning of the year.

******************************************************************

Answers:
1.  Lisa Gray, Ph.D.
2.  Ken Porter, M.B.A., Ed.D.
3.  Don Smith, B.S.

*******************************************************************

Professional effectiveness E-workbooks, Printed Workbooks, Training
Kits, On-site Training & Online Courses.

Books: Bull's Eye Business Writing - a Self-paced Workbook; How To
Improve Your Business Reading Skills; Effective
Communication/Interpersonal Skills; Overcoming Presentation Anxiety
and Dealing with Difficult People.

Basic Learning Systems, Inc. TOLL FREE-888-204-3600
See our Web site at http://www.basic-learning.com

We never send these tips out unless you have requested them.
If you do not want to receive them in the future, please send
a message with CANCEL-TIPS in the subject to:
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address, please send us the one you used when you signed up.

Many nouns of foreign origin retain their foreign plurals.

Singular 	 Plural

Emphasis 	 Emphases
Parenthesis 	 Parentheses
Basis 		 Bases
Analysis 	 Analyses
Criterion 	 Criteria
Phenomenon 	 Phenomena
Datum 		 Data
Addendum 	 Addenda
Medium 		        Media
Stimulus 	 Stimuli
Syllabus 	 Syllabi

*******************************************************************

E-workbooks and training kits are available in a wide range of
topics, such as Effective Communication/Interpersonal Skills,
Dealing with Difficult People, Change, and Telephone Skills.

Our featured product is Bull's Eye Business Writing — a Self-paced
Workbook. This is also available as part of an online
writing course. Other printed workbooks: Overcoming Presentation
Anxiety and How To Improve Your Business Reading Skills.

Basic Learning Systems, TOLL FREE-888-204-3600
See our website at http://www.basic-learning.com

*******************************************************************

These weekly tips are sent out to over 17,600 subscribers
worldwide each week. Sign up at tips@...

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1.  The (datum/data) collected in the study suggests an increase in
employee satisfaction.
2.  The (addendum/addenda) to this report demonstrates production
numbers for April 2008.
3.  Last quarter's statistics were reported by the (medium/media).

*******************************************************************

Quote of the week:

Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds you
plant. - Robert Louis Stevenson

Send us your favorite quote and you may see it posted here.

*******************************************************************

Vocabulary word of the week:

Tabulate [Ta'-byou-leit] – arrange in tables.
Ex: All of the statistical data will be tabulated for your review.

*******************************************************************
Answers:

1.  The data collected in the study suggests an increase in employee
satisfaction.
2.  The addendum to this report demonstrates production numbers for
April 2008.
3.  Last quarter's statistics were reported by the media.

********************************************************************

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When addressing a letter to
•  one person, write "Mr./Ms./Mrs. Smith:"
•  several people, write "Mr. Wall, Ms. Craig, and Ms. Bell:"
•  a person whose name you do not know, write "Dear Sir or Madam:"
•  an organization composed of men and women, write "Ladies and
Gentlemen:"

*******************************************************************

E-workbooks and training kits are available in a wide range of
topics, such as Effective Communication/Interpersonal Skills,
Dealing with Difficult People, Change, and Telephone Skills.

Our featured product is Bull's Eye Business Writing — a Self-paced
Workbook. This is also available as part of an online
writing course. Other printed workbooks: Overcoming Presentation
Anxiety and How To Improve Your Business Reading Skills.

Basic Learning Systems, TOLL FREE-888-204-3600
See our website at http://www.basic-learning.com

*******************************************************************

These weekly tips are sent out to over 17,000 subscribers
worldwide each week. Sign up at tips@...

*******************************************************************

Exercise:
Write a salutation to:
1.  a husband and wife, Ben and Barbara Tereno.
2.  an organization that is composed of men only.
3.  the president of an organization, Bill Clayton, and the vice-
president, Sarah Craft.

*******************************************************************

Quote of the week:

Each of us has a fire in our hearts for something. It's our goal in
life to find it and to keep it lit. — Mary Lou Retton

Send us your favorite quote and you may see it posted here.

*******************************************************************

Vocabulary word of the week:
Impervious (im'-pur-vee-ous):  not capable of being damaged or
harmed. Ex: Pressure-treated wood is ideal for outdoor furniture
because it's impervious to water.

*******************************************************************

Suggested answers:
1.  Dear Mr. and Mrs. Tereno:
2.  Gentlemen:
3.  Dear Mr. Clayton and Ms. Craft:

********************************************************************

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Two words that are commonly confused are "disperse" and "disburse."
Disperse means to scatter, disseminate, or distribute. Ex: The crowd
dispersed after the meeting. Disburse means to pay out. Ex: Our
weekly expenses were disbursed.

********************************************************************

LAST WEEK!!! This is the last week for the 2-for-1 E-workbook
special. Save up to 31.95! See our many offerings on topics such as
Effective Communications Skills (We can all use help there!),
Listening Skills, Change and MANY MORE! See the right side of our
homepage for more information: http://www.basic-learning.com

Please note: Bull's Eye Writing, Overcoming Presentation Anxiety, and
Reading Skills are only available in E-workbook format to Non-U.S.
customers. If you are a U. S. customer, please order the printed
version.
http://www.basiclearning.com/IndividualLearning/aboutprintedbooks.aspx

********************************************************************

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worldwide each week. Sign up at tips@...

********************************************************************

Select the correct word.

1. The meeting ____________________ at 3:00 p.m. (disbursed/dispersed)
2. Your check will be _____________________ tomorrow.
(disbursed/dispersed)
3. The interest is typically ________________ on the last day of the
month. (disbursed/dispersed)
4. The memo was ______________________ throughout the building.
(disbursed/dispersed)

(See the answers below.)

*******************************************************************

Quote of the week:

Keep your fears to yourself, but share your inspiration with others.
——Robert Louis Stevenson

Send us your favorite quote and you may see it posted here.

*******************************************************************

Vocabulary word of the week:

Benevolence[be-NE-va-lens]: doing good or wishing to do good
Ex: Mr. Smith's benevolence made it possible for three inner-city
teens to attend college.

*******************************************************************

Answers:
1. The meeting dispersed at 3:00 p.m.
2. Your check will be disbursed tomorrow.
3. The interest is typically disbursed on the last day of the month.
4. The memo was dispersed throughout the building

********************************************************************

E-workbooks and training kits are available in a wide range of
topics, such as Effective Communication/Interpersonal Skills,
Dealing with Difficult People, Change and Telephone Skills.

Our featured product is Bull's Eye Business Writing - a Self-
paced Workbook. This is also available as part of an online
writing course. Other printed workbooks: Overcoming Presentation
Anxiety and How To Improve Your Business Reading Skills.

Basic Learning Systems, TOLL FREE-888-204-3600
See our website at http://www.basic-learning.com

*******************************************************************

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If you do not want to receive them in the future, please send
a message with CANCEL-TIPS in the subject to:
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E-mail has become an official form of business communication. Instead
of "paper trails," offices now create "e-mail trails." Electronic
communication should be given all the formality afforded to paper
communication. Follow the rules below when writing e-mails:

1. Capitalize words whenever appropriate.
2. Use proper punctuation.
3. Never include abbreviations used in the Internet chatrooms
(ex: "lol" or "btw").
4. Include the original e-mail when sending a reply.
5. "Carbon copy" your e-mails to the individuals mentioned within
them.

*******************************************************************

Are you looking for Soft Skills Training Kits that are easy to use and
reasonably priced? Basic Learning Systems has kits in topics such as
Change, Communication, Listening, and many others. Each kit includes
a leader's guide, PowerPoint slides, and a license to print 25 copies
of the participant manual. To look over our offerings, go to:
http://www.basiclearning.com/OrganisationalLearning/abouttrainingkit.
aspx

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Correct the following e-mail:

lisa,

it was great talking to u yesterday. . . hope we can set up a meeting
soon. . . btw, the product u are looking for is in development.

minny

(See the suggested answer below.)

*******************************************************************

Quote of the week:

Life's real failure is when you do not realize how close to success
you were when you gave up.---Brian Tracy

Send us your favorite quote and you may see it posted here.

*******************************************************************

Vocabulary word of the week:
Comprise [kam-PRIZE] – to include, contain, or consist of.
The parent corporation comprises three sub-divisions.

*******************************************************************

Lisa,

It was great  talking  to you yesterday.  I hope that we can set up a
meeting soon.  By the way, the product you are looking for is
currently in development.

Regards,
Minny Benson
Product manager
ABC Corporation
(961)333-2211

*******************************************************************

E-workbooks and training kits are available in a wide range of
topics, such as Effective Communication/Interpersonal Skills,
Dealing with Difficult People, Change and Telephone Skills.

Our featured product is Bull's Eye Business Writing - a Self-
paced Workbook. This is also available as part of an online
writing course. Other printed workbooks: Overcoming Presentation
Anxiety and How To Improve Your Business Reading Skills.

Basic Learning Systems, TOLL FREE-888-204-3600
See our website at http://www.basic-learning.com

*******************************************************************

We never send these tips out unless you have requested them.
If you do not want to receive them in the future, please send
a message with CANCEL-TIPS in the subject to:
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address, please send us the one you used when you signed up.

Whether you are preparing for a conference presentation or drafting a
brief memo, writing is a process. This means that no document can be
written in one swoop; it always requires several levels of revisions
and edits.  The following sources should be utilized throughout the
writing process:
1) COMPUTER - Always use your computer editing tools first, such as
spell check, grammar, punctuation, and style checks.
2) YOURSELF - Reread your writing several times to make sure that
sentences are structured properly and convey your ideas in the way
that you wish.
3) OTHERS – Ask your coworkers, friends, or family members for
feedback on your writing.
4) PROFESSIONALS – Consult professional editors when writing long
documents.

******************************************************************

Are you employed in the training or human resources department? Are
you looking for soft skills training kits that are easy to use and
reasonably priced? Basic Learning Systems has kits in topics, such as
Change, Communication, Listening, and many others. Each kit includes
a leader's guide, PowerPoint slides, and a license to print 25 copies
of the participant manual. To look over our offerings, go to:
http://www.basiclearning.com/OrganisationalLearning/abouttrainingkit.
aspx

******************************************************************

These weekly tips are sent out to over 17,000 subscribers
worldwide each week. Sign up at tips@...

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Edit the following sentences:
1. The purpose of my business traveling is evaluating productivity of
our satellite offices.
2. New initiatives are being considered for implementing.
3. To customer services should be directed all quality concerns.
4. Because the new supervision is now in place to provide guidance on
how the office is run, the employees are also finding themselves
facing new protocols for daily activities. (Simplify)

See answers below.

******************************************************************

Quote of the week:
Nine tenths of education is encouragement.
Anatole France, 1844-1924, French Author

Send us your favorite quote and you may see it posted here.

*******************************************************************

Vocabulary word of the week:
Sporadic (spuh-RA-dik) - Irregular, inconsistent.
The fund has experienced sporadic growth over the course of this year.

*******************************************************************

Suggested answers:
1. The purpose of my business trip is to evaluate the productivity of
our satellite offices.
2. New initiatives are being considered for implementation.
3. All quality concerns should be directed to customer service.
4. Because of new supervision, employees are now facing new protocols.

*******************************************************************

E-workbooks and training kits are available in a wide range of
topics, such as Effective Communication/Interpersonal Skills,
Dealing with Difficult People, Change and Telephone Skills.

Our featured product is Bull's Eye Business Writing - a Self-
paced Workbook. This is also available as part of an online
writing course. Other printed workbooks: Overcoming Presentation
Anxiety and How To Improve Your Business Reading Skills.

Basic Learning Systems, TOLL FREE-888-204-3600
See our website at http://www.basic-learning.com

******************************************************************

We never send these tips out unless you have requested them.
If you do not want to receive them in the future, please send
a message with CANCEL-TIPS in the subject to:
Cancel-tips@... If you now have a new e-mail
address, please send us the one you used when you signed up.

To avoid sexist language that favors one gender, use words that are
gender-neutral. Replace  the masculine pronoun "he" with "he or
she," "one," or the articles "a" and "the."  Use plural pronouns or
repeat the person's title, rather than using a masculine pronoun.
Replace words that refer to men (ex: person or individual instead of
man; artificial instead of man-made; chair or chairperson instead of
chairman; congressional representative instead of congressman).

******************************************************************

Are you interested in improving your business writing skills? Check
out our Bull's Eye Business Writing workbook, available as a printed
workbook for U. S. customers or as an e-book for those outside of
the U.S.. Are you in need of one-on-one assistance? A six-week
course with help from a writing professional is available. For more
information, visit: http://www.basiclearning.com/IndividualLearning/
PrintedBusinessWriting.aspx

******************************************************************

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Make the following sentences gender-neutral:
1. The average employee is concerned about the quality of his work.
2. Anyone who wants to sign up for the seminar should bring his ID.
3. See your floor supervisor, and he will explain the new procedure.
4. The chairman started the meeting at 9:00 a.m.

See answers below.

*****************************************************************

Quote of the week:
Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past
or present are certain to miss the future.---John.F. Kennedy

Send us your favorite quote and you may see it posted here.

*****************************************************************

Vocabulary word of the week:
Paradigm (noun)[PA-ra-dime]: A set of assumptions, concepts,
values shared by a community; a philosophical framework.
Example: The paradigm long accepted within our industry is currently
shifting.

******************************************************************

Answers:
1. Average employees are concerned about the quality of their
work. [use plural]
2. If you are interested in signing up for the seminar, please
bring your ID. [address reader directly]
3. See your floor supervisor, and the supervisor will explain the
procedure. [repeat title]
4. The chairperson started the meeting at 9:00 a.m. [use
alternative word]

******************************************************************

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See our website at http://www.basic-learning.com

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When writing copy, always focus on the reader.  For example, don't
write "Our sales seminar will cover three important tools for
contacting customers." Instead, focus on your readers with "In this
sales seminar, you'll gain four important techniques that will help
you to successfully contact customers."

*****************************************************************

Are you interested in improving your business writing skills? Check
out our Bull's Eye Business Writing workbook, available as a printed
workbook for U. S. customers or as an e-book for those outside of
the U.S.. Are you in need of one-on-one assistance?
A six-week course with help from a writing professional is available. For more
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Correct the following sentences:

1. Attached is a listing of competencies that display a
self-analysis of our staff.

2. Attached is two versions of a template for developing
courses.


See answers below.

****************************************************************

Quote of the week:
When you play, play hard; when you work, don't play at all.
---Theodore Roosevelt

Send us your favorite quote and you may see it posted here.

****************************************************************

Vocabulary word of the week:
Eminent (adj.): standing out so as to be readily perceived or noted.
Example: The eminent physicist spoke at the national conference.

****************************************************************

Suggested answers:
1. A listing of competencies that displays a self -analysis of
our staff is attached.
2. Two versions of a template for developing courses are
attached.


******************************************************************

E-workbooks and training kits are available in a wide range of
topics, such as Effective Communication/Interpersonal Skills,
Dealing with Difficult People, Change and Telephone Skills.

Our featured product is Bull's Eye Business Writing - a Self-
paced Workbook. This is also available as part of an online
writing course. Other printed workbooks: Overcoming Presentation
Anxiety and How To Improve Your Business Reading Skills.

Basic Learning Systems, TOLL FREE-888-204-3600
See our website at http://www.basic-learning.com

*************************************************************

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Don't use words that hedge or evade such as "it is my understanding,"
"possibly," "perhaps," or "could." Customers and prospects become
distrustful when they are exposed to a lack of forthrightness. These
words may be used, however, in situations when you are making a
suggestion to a difficult person or one opposed to your ideas.

In response to last week's tip on margins, a reader commented:

"This is a practice that is and should be changing for the purpose of
reducing the use of paper. Almost everything I write or produce in my
job is with .5" margins, and it works fine. Thanks for the opportunity
to comment."

What do you think?

*****************************************************************

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Would you like to become a more confident and powerful speaker?
Check out our "Breaking Through the Fear Barrier" workbook and
"Powerful Presentations" CDs.

Go to http://www.basic-learning.com and type either term into
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See how many words you can match to their meanings:
Alliteration, onomatopoeia, personification, epic

1. a long poem that tells the story of an heroic person
2. the repetition of initial consonant sounds
3. a figure of speech giving human traits to ideas or
inanimate objects
4. the use of words to imitate sounds

See answers below.

****************************************************************

Quote of the week:
Genius without education is like silver in the mine.  Benjamin Franklin

Send us your favorite quote and you may see it posted here.

****************************************************************

Vocabulary word of the week:
Salient(adj.): something that stands out; of notable significance.
Example: Let's discuss the proposal's salient points.

****************************************************************

Answers:

Alliteration: the repetition of initial consonant sounds
Onomatopoeia: the use of words to imitate sounds
Personification: a figure of speech giving human traits to ideas or
inanimate objects
Epic: a long poem that tells the story an heroic person

******************************************************************

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paced Workbook. This is also available as part of an online
writing course. Other printed workbooks: Overcoming Presentation
Anxiety and How To Improve Your Business Reading Skills.

E-workbooks and training kits are available in a wide range of
topics, such as Effective Communication/Interpersonal Skills,
Dealing with Difficult People, Change and Telephone Skills.

Basic Learning Systems, TOLL FREE-888-204-3600
See our website at http://www.basic-learning.com

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According to the Gregg Reference Manual, use a top margin
of about two inches for the first page of a business document
if using plain stationery. If you wish to fit more copy on the
first page and avoid using a second page, then use the default
margin of one inch. If there's a letterhead on the first page,
leave a minimum of one-half inch between the letterhead and
the first item to be typed. If using a second page, use plain
paper and leave a one-inch top margin.

*****************************************************************

Are you scared to death of public speaking?
Would you like to become a more confident and powerful speaker?
Check out our "Breaking Through the Fear Barrier" workbook and
"Powerful Presentations" CDs.

Go to http://www.basic-learning.com and type either term into
the search bar on the top of the page or go to the "Individual
Learning" navigation bar and scroll down the list of products.

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Today's quiz:
1. The color of her dress (compliments/complements) her hair.
2. The argument between the two close friends (piqued/peaked)
    my curiosity.
3. What I'm planning is (no one's/no ones) business but mine.
4. (Michael/Michael's) and (Chan/Chan's) apartment is always
    messy.

See answers below.

****************************************************************

Quote of the week:
There is nothing like a dream to create the future.
– Victor Hugo, French Poet/Dramatist/Novelist

****************************************************************

Vocabulary word of the week:
Congruent(adj.): in agreement or harmony; conforming to the
requirements of a situation. Example: Due to the congruent nature
of the two businesses, the merger was fairly seamless.

****************************************************************

Answers:

1.  The color of her dress complements her hair.
2.  The argument between the two close friends piqued my     curiosity.
3.  What I'm planning is no one's business but mine.

4.  Michael and Chan's apartment is always messy.

******************************************************************

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paced Workbook. This is also available as part of an online
writing course. Other printed workbooks: Overcoming Presentation
Anxiety and How To Improve Your Business Reading Skills.

E-workbooks and training kits are available in a wide range of
topics, such as Effective Communication/Interpersonal Skills,
Dealing with Difficult People, Change and Telephone Skills.

Basic Learning Systems, TOLL FREE-888-204-3600
See our website at http://www.basic-learning.com

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The words "there's" and "here's" are often used incorrectly.
"There's" means "there is" and "here's" means "here is." Use
these words with singular nouns. Use "there are" or "here are"
with plural nouns.

*****************************************************************

This week's quiz:
1. I said to my supervisor, "(Here's/Here are) the reports."
2. (There's/There are) several good restaurants in this area.
3. (Here's/Here are) today's newspaper.
4. I suspect that (there's/there are) a security leak.

See answers below.

****************************************************************

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Correction:
Tip #500 should have been:
As a general rule, spell out numbers 1 through 10; anything above
that should be in numbers. However, when there are two related
numbers in a sentence and one is 1 through 10 and the other is
greater than 10, use the numerical form for both.

For example:
There are three apples.
There are 20 oranges.
There are 3 apples on this cart and 20 apples on the other one.

One reader offered a useful commentary on the subject of writing
numbers: "Numerals are often considered a distraction to the
reader's eye and mind, so it may be better(and rarely wrong)to
spell out any number. The notable exception is in technical
specification documents and other materials that deal with
measurements and quantities, in which case it's typical to use
only numerals."

****************************************************************

Quote of the week:
The most called-upon prerequisite of a friend is an accessible
ear. – Maya Angelou, American Poet and Writer

****************************************************************

Vocabulary word of the week:
irascible (adj.): marked by a hot temper. Example: The workers
found it challenging to deal with their supervisor's irascible
nature.

****************************************************************

Answers:
1. I said to my supervisor, "Here are the reports."
2. There are several good restaurants in this area.
3. Here's today's newspaper.
4. I suspect that there's a security leak.

******************************************************************

Our featured product is Bull's Eye Business Writing - a Self-
paced Workbook. This is also available as part of an online
writing course. Other printed workbooks: Overcoming Presentation
Anxiety and How To Improve Your Business Reading Skills.

E-workbooks and training kits are available in a wide range of
topics, such as Effective Communication/Interpersonal Skills,
Dealing with Difficult People, Change and Telephone Skills.

Basic Learning Systems, TOLL FREE-888-204-3600
See our website at http://www.basic-learning.com

*************************************************************

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As a general rule, numbers 1 through 10 may be represented in their
numeral form; anything above that should be spelled out in letters.
However, when there are two numbers in a sentence and one is 1
through 10 and the other is greater than 10, both numbers should be
spelled out.

For example:
There are 3 apples.
There are twenty oranges.
There are three apples and twenty oranges.

********************************************************************

Fill in the blank with the appropriate numerical representation:
1. I went to the parking lot and walked by ________ (5/five) rows
    of cars before I reached my own.
2. There were _________ (10/ten) photos on the wall and __________
    (13/thirteen) original pieces of artwork.
3. The runner sprinted ________ (23/twenty-three) city blocks in
    record time.

See answers below.

Important Note!!!
We apologize if you went to the new site and experienced any
problems. Everything is working fine now, so please visit us today.

For a limited time, we're offering 2-for-1 workbooks to help launch
our remodeled site, http://www.basic-learning.com.  Click on the
flashing "Two-for-One E-books" notice on the right side of the
homepage. That will take you to the "special page" with 16 topics
listed, such as Communication,Change, Dealing with Difficult People,
and many more. If you'd like a detailed description of any topic
listed, click to its full page description, but return to
the "special page" to order.

Please let us know what you think of the new look, logo, and ease of
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********************************************************************

Quote of the week:
Use soft words and hard arguments. – English Proverb

******************************************************************

Vocabulary word of the week:
Incredulous (adj.): unwilling or unable to accept what is offered as
true.
Example: I saw the incredulous look on his face after he was told the
tragic news.

**********************************************************************

Answers:
1. I went to the parking lot and walked by 5 rows of cars before I
    reached my own.
2. There were ten photos on the wall and thirteen original pieces of
    artwork.
3. The runner sprinted twenty-three city blocks in record time.

******************************************************************

Our featured product is Bull's Eye Business Writing - a Self-
paced Workbook. This is also available as part of an online
writing course. Other printed workbooks: Overcoming Presentation
Anxiety and How To Improve Your Business Reading Skills.

E-workbooks and training kits are available in a wide range of
topics, such as Effective Communication/Interpersonal Skills,
Dealing with Difficult People, Change and Telephone Skills.

Basic Learning Systems, TOLL FREE-888-204-3600
See our Web site at http://www.basic-learning.com

*************************************************************

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Avoid beginning sentences with a gerund, which is a verb form
ending in –ing used as a noun. A gerund is often mistaken for a
verb and therefore results in an incomplete sentence. "Saving my
money" is incorrect, because "saving" serves as a noun in the
sentence, not a verb. A sentence needs a verb to be complete, so
in order to correct sentence fragments which begin with a gerund,
simply add a verb phrase to the end. Correct: "Saving my money is
difficult."

******************************************************************

Correct the following. Answers will vary:
1.  Working late.
2.  Spending the entire budget by July.
3.  Speaking to my co-workers.

Help us celebrate!  For a limited time, we're offering 2-for-1
workbooks to launch our remodeled site.  Please visit us at
https://www.basic-learning.com.  Click on the flashing "Two-for-One
E-books" notice on the right side of the homepage. That will take
you to the "special page" with 16 topics listed, such as
Communication, Change, Dealing with Difficult People, and many more.
If you'd like a detailed description of any topic listed, click to
its full page description, but return to the "special page" to place
your order.

Please let us know what you think of the new look, logo, and ease of
navigation. Send your comments to: info@....

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worldwide each week. Sign up at tips@...

*****************************************************************

Quote of the week:
Defeat is not the worst of failures. Not to have tried is the true
failure. –George E. Woodbury, 1855-1930, U.S. Literary Critic/Poet

******************************************************************

Vocabulary word of the week:
Egregious (adj.) conspicuously or very bad. Example: The news media
couldn't wait to report the candidate's egregious error of
mispronouncing the prime minister's name.

******************************************************************

Answers will vary. Suggested answers:
1.  Working late was not my choice.
2.  Spending the entire budget by July created problems.
3.  Speaking to my co-workers eased my concerns.

******************************************************************

Our featured product is Bull's Eye Business Writing - a Self-
paced Workbook. This is also available as part of an online
writing course. Other printed workbooks: Overcoming Presentation
Anxiety and How To Improve Your Business Reading Skills.

E-workbooks and training kits are available in a wide range of
topics, such as Effective Communication/Interpersonal Skills,
Dealing with Difficult People, Change and Telephone Skills.

Basic Learning Systems, TOLL FREE-888-204-3600
See our Web site at https://www.basic-learning.com

*************************************************************

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Although the conjunction "as well as" joins two like items, it
does not affect whether the verb is singular or plural. Example:
The union official, as well as the workers, agrees to the terms.


****************************************************************

Choose the correct answer:

1.  Administrative assistants, as well as supervisors, (is, are)
     being hired.
2.  Mr. Chang, as well as his employees, (is, are) on vacation.
3.  The lawyer, as well as his secretary, (is, are) out of
     the office.

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****************************************************************

Quote of the week:

Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do
are in harmony. --- Mohandas Gandhi

****************************************************************

Vocabulary word of the week:
Juggernaut(n.): a massive force, campaign or object that crushes
anything in its path. Example: Our new CEO is a juggernaut, so be
careful not to get in his way.

****************************************************************

Answers:

1. Administrative assistants, as well as supervisors, are
    being hired.
2. Mr. Chang, as well as his employees, is on vacation.
3. The lawyer, as well as his secretary, is out of the office.

***************************************************************
Our featured product is Bull's Eye Business Writing - a Self-
paced Workbook. This is also available as part of an online
writing course. Other printed workbooks: Overcoming Presentation
Anxiety and How To Improve Your Business Reading Skills.

E-workbooks and training kits are available in a wide range of
topics, such as Effective Communication/Interpersonal Skills,
Dealing with Difficult People, Change and Telephone Skills.

Basic Learning Systems, TOLL FREE- 888-204-3600
See our Web site at http://www.basic-learning.com

*************************************************************

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Do not model advertising slogans in your business writing. Some
of the slogans may contain improper grammar.


****************************************************************

Correct the following:

1.  Got milk? (National Milk Processor Board)
2.  You've Got Mail! (AOL)
3.  Where You At? (Boost Mobile)

Send us any incorrect ads or signs you notice, and we'll
include them in future e-mails.

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Coming soon! Our website, www. basic-learning.com, is being
revamped to make it more attractive and easier for you to
navigate. Stay tuned for news and special offers.

****************************************************************

Quote of the week:

Real integrity is doing the right thing, knowing that nobody's
going to know whether you did it or not. – Oprah Winfrey

****************************************************************

Vocabulary word of the week:

Circuitous (adj.): not being forthright or direct in language or
action. Example: When I asked my boss why I hadn't received a
raise, she gave me a circuitous response.

****************************************************************

Answers:
1.  Do you have milk? or  Do you drink milk?
2.  You have mail.
3.  Where are you?

************************************************************
Our featured product is Bull's Eye Business Writing - a Self-
paced Workbook. This is also available as part of an online
writing course. Other printed workbooks: Overcoming Presentation
Anxiety and How To Improve Your Business Reading Skills.

E-workbooks and training kits are available in a wide range of
topics, such as Effective Communication/Interpersonal Skills,
Dealing with Difficult People, Change and Telephone Skills.

Basic Learning Systems, TOLL FREE- 888-204-3600
See our Web site at http://www.basic-learning.com

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The words explicit and implicit are often confused. Explicit
means clearly expressed, while implicit means implied.

****************************************************************

Choose the correct answer:

1. The surgeon gave (explicit, implicit) directions to the nurse.
2. The new manager's (explicit, implicit) comments left us confused.
3. After reading the (explicit, implicit) job description, I
    realized that I was not yet qualified for a management position.

These weekly tips are sent out to over 17,000 subscribers each week.
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Coming soon! Our website, www.basic-learning.com, is being
upgraded to make it more attractive and easier for you to
navigate. Stay tuned for news and special offers.

****************************************************************

Quote of the week:
You can't shake hands with a clenched fist.---Indira Gandhi

****************************************************************

Vocabulary word of the week:
Enigma (n.) something hard to understand; a puzzle or mystery.
Example: It's an enigma why politicians can't agree on more issues.

****************************************************************

Answers:

1.  The surgeon gave explicit directions to the nurses.
2.  The new manager's implicit comments left us confused.
3.  After reading the explicit job description, I realized that I
     was not yet qualified  for a management position.

****************************************************************

Our featured product is Bull's Eye Business Writing - a Self-
paced Workbook. This is also available as part of an online
writing course. Other printed workbooks: Overcoming Presentation
Anxiety and How To Improve Your Business Reading Skills.

E-workbooks and training kits are available in a wide range of
topics, such as Effective Communication/Interpersonal Skills,
Dealing with Difficult People, Change and Telephone Skills.

Basic Learning Systems, TOLL FREE- 888-204-3600
See our Web site at http://www.basic-learning.com

*************************************************************

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a message with CANCEL-TIPS in the Subject to:
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The words explicit and implicit are often confused. Explicit
means clearly expressed, while implicit means implied.

****************************************************************

Choose the correct answer:

1.  The surgeon gave (explicit, implicit) directions to the nurses.
2.  The new manager's (explicit, implicit) comments left us confused.
3.  After reading the (explicit, implicit) job description, I
     realized that I was not yet qualified for a management position.

These weekly tips are sent out to over 17,000 subscribers.
Let your co-workers know they can receive these tips by sending

an e-mail to marsha@....

Coming soon! Our website, www.basic-learning.com, is being
upgraded to make it more attractive and easier for you to
navigate. Stay tuned for news and special offers.

****************************************************************

Quote of the week:
You can't shake hands with a clenched fist.---Indira Gandhi

****************************************************************

Vocabulary Word of the Week:
Enigma (n.) something hard to understand; a puzzle or mystery.
Example: It's an enigma why politicians can't agree on more issues.

****************************************************************

Answers:

1.  The surgeon gave explicit directions to the nurses.
2.  The new manager's implicit comments left us confused.
3.  After reading the explicit job description, I realized that

     I was not yet qualified  for a management position.

****************************************************************

Our featured product is Bull's Eye Business Writing - a Self-
paced Workbook. This is also available as part of an online
writing course. Other printed workbooks: Overcoming Presentation
Anxiety and How To Improve Your Business Reading Skills.

E-workbooks and training kits are available in a wide range of
topics, such as Effective Communication/Interpersonal Skills,
Dealing with Difficult People, Change and Telephone Skills.

Basic Learning Systems, TOLL FREE- 888-204-3600
See our Web site at http://www.basic-learning.com

***************************************************************

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If you do not want to receive them in the future, please send
a message with CANCEL-TIPS in the Subject to:
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If an entire sentence is an exclamation and the ending words
are exact words in quotation, place the exclamation mark after
the quotation. Example: I was shocked when my co-worker smugly
said, "No way"! If only the quotation is an exclamation, place
the exclamation mark before the quotation marks. Example: I
believe she's the person who yelled, "Fire!"

****************************************************************

Choose the correct answer:

1.  Donald Trump is famous for his line, ("You're fired"! or
     "You're fired!")
2.  I was devastated when he said, ("Drop dead"! or "Drop dead!")
3.  While making my best shot yet, I heard a man yell, ("Fore"!
     or "Fore!")

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upgraded to make it more attractive and easier for you to
navigate. Stay tuned for news and special offers.

****************************************************************

Quote of the week:
Clinging to the past is the problem. Embracing change is the
answer. --Gloria Steinem

****************************************************************

Vocabulary word of the week:
Improbable: unlikely to occur or to be true.  Example: It's
improbable that we will get raises this year.

****************************************************************

Answers:

1.   Donald Trump is famous for his line, "You're fired!"
2.   I was devastated when he said, "Drop dead"!
3.   While making my best shot yet, I heard a man yell, "Fore!"

****************************************************************

Our featured product is Bull's Eye Business Writing - a Self-
paced Workbook. This is also available as part of an online
writing course. Other printed workbooks: Overcoming Presentation
Anxiety and How To Improve Your Business Reading Skills.

E-workbooks and training kits are available in a wide range of
topics, such as Effective Communication/Interpersonal Skills,
Dealing with Difficult People, Change and Telephone Skills.

Basic Learning Systems, TOLL FREE- 888-204-3600
See our Web site at http://www.basic-learning.com

*************************************************************

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Often, words are spelled differently than they sound. A
common example is "would have." Its contraction form "would've"
is often misspelled "would of."

****************************************************************

Choose the correct answer:
1.  I (should have, should of) turned off my computer before I
     left the office.
2.  If you want a raise, you (oughta, ought to) get to work on
     time.
3.  He (could of, could have) brought that up at the meeting.

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E-mail marsha@basic-learning to sign up for these tips.

****************************************************************

Quote of the week:
Education is the most valuable weapon which you can use to change   the
world.--Nelson Mandela

****************************************************************

Vocabulary word of the week:
Pundit(n.: a person who gives opinions, usually through the mass
media; a critic. Example: We hear from many pundits during the campaign.

****************************************************************
Answers:

1.  I should have turned off my computer before I left the office.
2.  If you want a raise, you ought to get to work on time.
3.  He could have brought that up at the meeting.

****************************************************************

Our featured product is Bull's Eye Business Writing - a Self-
paced Workbook. This is also available as part of an online writing
course. Other printed workbooks: Overcoming Presentation Anxiety
and How To Improve Your Business Reading Skills.

E-workbooks and training kits are available in a wide range of
topics, such as Effective Communication/Interpersonal Skills,
Dealing with Difficult People, Change and Telephone Skills.

Basic Learning Systems, TOLL FREE- 888-204-3600
See our Web site at http://www.basic-learning.com

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Tip #493:  If two people own the same thing, use apostrophe and 's'
for the second person only.  Example:  Jim and Sandy's boss makes
their accounting work more pleasurable by offering frequent breaks.
If they don't share the same thing, use an apostrophe and 's' for both.

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Choose the correct answer:
1.   (Shari , Shari's) and (Leslie, Leslie's) desks have been
       replaced.
2.   (Bob, Bob's) and (Mara, Mara's) walk  together was cut short.
3.   (Greg, Greg's) and (Jan, Jan's)  ride to the 5th floor was done
       in silence.
See answers below.

Today's tip is going out to over 17,140 subscribers.
E-mail marsha@basic-learning to sign up for these tips.

****************************************************************

Quote of the week:
It is your attitude, not your aptitude, that determines your
altitude." Zig Ziglar

****************************************************************

Vocabulary word of the week:
Salacious (adj.):  arousing or appealing to sexual desire or
imagination.  Example:  Several tabloids are known to carry salacious
news about celebrities.

****************************************************************

Answers:

1.   Shari's and Leslie's desks have been replaced.
2.   Bob and Margarita's lunchtime walk was cut short.
3.   Greg and Jan's ride to the 5th floor was done in silence.

****************************************************************

Our featured product is Bull's Eye Business Writing - a Self-
paced Workbook. This is also available as part of an online writing
course. Other printed workbooks: Overcoming Presentation Anxiety
and How To Improve Your Business Reading Skills.

E-workbooks and training kits are available in a wide range of
topics, such as Effective Communication/Interpersonal Skills,
Dealing with Difficult People, Change and Telephone Skills.

Basic Learning Systems, TOLL FREE- 888-204-3600
See our Web site at http://www.basic-learning.com

*************************************************************

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New Feature--Word of the Week. A word will be selected that
may not be well-known by many people. We suggest you use the
word often during the week, so it will become a part of your
new vocabulary.

Clamor (n): insistent public expression. There is a clamor for
ethical leaders.

**************************************************************

Tip #492: If you're confused over when to use "who" or "whom"
use this trick: substitute the word he/she or him/her and notice
which sounds better. If he or she is correct, then use who. If
him or her sounds better, use whom. Example: Ms. Stevens is the
one (who, whom) had the highest sales this quarter.
"Her had the highest sales" doesn't sound correct.
"She had the highest sales" sounds correct, so use who.

Today's tip is going out to 17,091 subscribers.
E-mail marsha@basic-learning to sign up for these tips.

**************************************************************

Choose the correct answer:
1. He appears to be the candidate (who, whom) will win the election.
2. I wonder (who, whom) will make the best department head.
3. With (who, whom) are you traveling?

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Success is dependent upon the glands--sweat glands.  Zig Ziglar

**************************************************************

Answers:

1. He appears to be the candidate who will win the election.
2. I wonder who will make the best department head.
3. With whom are you traveling?

**************************************************************

Our featured product is Bull's Eye Business Writing - a Self-
paced Workbook. This is also available as part of an online writing
course. Other printed workbooks: Overcoming Presentation Anxiety
and How To Improve Your Business Reading Skills.

E-workbooks and training kits are available in a wide range of
topics, such as Effective Communication/Interpersonal Skills,
Dealing with Difficult People, Change and Telephone Skills.

Basic Learning Systems, TOLL FREE- 888-204-3600
See our Web site at http://www.basic-learning.com

*************************************************************

We never send these tips out unless you have requested them.
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We wish you a happy New Year. May this year be a joyous,
healthy and prosperous one for you and your loved ones.

*************************************************************
New Feature--Word of the Week. A word will be selected that
may not be well-known by many people. We suggest you use the
word often during the week, so it will become a part of your
new vocabulary.

Ubiquitous (adj.): existing everywhere at the same time.
We see ubiquitous political ads before elections.

**************************************************************

Tip #491:  The name of a publication or product is considered
singular, even though it may be plural in form. For example:
Consumer Reports is publishing an update on minivans.

These tips go out weekly to over 17,000 subscribers.

**************************************************************
Choose the correct verb:
1. Frosted Flakes (are, is) my favorite cereal.
2. Changing Times (are, is) offering new subscribers a
    discounted rate.
3. The United States (are, is) undertaking a new foreign policy.
**************************************************************
"Happiness depends upon ourselves." (Aristotle, ancient
Greek philosopher)

**************************************************************
Answers:
1.  Frosted Flakes (is) my favorite cereal.
2.  Changing Times (is) offering new subscribers a discount.
3.  The United States (is) undertaking a new foreign policy.

**************************************************************
Professional Effectiveness Seminars, Workbooks & Courses,
Business Writing, Reading, Communication Skills.

Books: Bull's Eye Business Writing - a Self-paced Workbook;
Overcoming Presentation Anxiety; How To Improve Your Business
Reading Skills; Effective Communication/Interpersonal Skills;
Resume Writing For Students and Executives; and Dealing with
Difficult People.

Basic Learning Systems, TOLL FREE- 888-204-3600
See our Web site at http://www.basic-learning.com

*************************************************************

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Due to the holiday, tips will not be sent out next week.
Happy Holidays to all our subscribers!

**********************************************************
Use a singular verb after a phrase beginning with "one of" or
"one of the." For example: One of my backup disks has been lost.

***********************************************************

Choose the correct verb:

1. One of the reasons for so many absences (are, is)
    poor motivation.
2. No one, not even the executive vice presidents,
   (know, knows) whether the CEO plans to resign.
3. One of you (are, is) to be nominated for the office.

***********************************************************
"The greatest truths are the simplest, and so are the
  greatest men." (J.C.Hare)

***********************************************************
Answers:

1. One of the reasons for so many absences is poor motivation.
2. No one, not even the executive vice presidents, knows
    whether the CEO plans to resign.
3. One of you is to be nominated for the office.

***********************************************************
Professional Effectiveness Seminars, Workbooks & Courses,
Business Writing, Reading, Communication Skills.

Books: Bull's Eye Business Writing - a Self-paced Workbook;
Overcoming Presentation Anxiety; How To Improve Your Business
Reading Skills; Effective Communication/Interpersonal Skills;
Resume Writing For Students and Executives; and Dealing with
Difficult People.

Basic Learning Systems, Inc. TOLL FREE- 888-204-3600
See our Web site at http://www.basic-learning.com

*************************************************************

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If you do not want to receive them in the future, please send
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Do not mistake a descriptive form ending in "s" for a possessive
form.  For example, in the term "sales effort," sales describes the
effort; therefore, no apostrophe is needed.

*********************************************************

Please share these tips with your friends and associates. You
are one of more than 16,950 subscribers around the world.

*********************************************************

Please place an apostrophe where it is needed:

1. a six months leave of absence
2. an old boys network
3. a savings account
4. an earnings record

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"The pursuit of truth will set you free  -- even if you never catch
up with it."  (Clarence Darrow, 20th –century American lawyer)

*********************************************************

Answers:

1. a six months' leave of absence
2. an old boys' network

*********************************************************
Professional Effectiveness Seminars, Workbooks & Courses. Business
Writing, Reading, Communication Skills.

Books: Bull's Eye Business Writing - a Self-paced Workbook; How To
Improve Your Business Reading Skills; Effective
Communication/Interpersonal Skills; Resume Writing For Students and
Executives; and Dealing with Difficult People.

Basic Learning Systems, Inc. TOLL FREE- 888-204-3600
See our Web site at http://www.basic-learning.com
***************************************************************

We never send these tips out unless you have requested them.
If you do not want to receive them in the future, please send
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