The Reader

When planning your correspondence as a dialogue with the reader, you should try to anticipate your reader’s needs or questions. By doing this, you are more likely to provide the information that your reader needs. You will also be more likely to organize that information into a sequence that makes sense to the reader.

You have already considered the reader’s first question: “What is this document about?” This question usually results in an answer that tells the reader whether the document is responsive or initiative.

One way to discover your reader’s needs is to conduct a Reader Analysis by considering factors such as your reader’s background knowledge, available time, and likely reaction to the topic discussed in your document.

Conducting a reader analysis helps you to anticipate your reader’s needs as you plan your correspondence. This is a key part of the planning process for all writing.