Linda Hefferman

writing (& editing): technical books & manuals, essays, articles, stories

 

Linda sitting on booksMy promise to you, dear reader

In all my work—technical books, online help systems, essays, articles, stories—I strive to embody the qualities that make for good writing. Each piece I put my name to and release into the world has been honed and polished, ready to do its best work in the world, for you.

Good writing. . .

Inspires

Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you feel that you, too, can become great. — Mark Twain

We're all capable of much more than we can imagine. Scientists tell us we use only a measly 5% of our brain capacity. Good writing nudges us to reach higher, dream bigger, and transform 'I could never do that' into 'of course I can.'

Illuminates

Put it before them briefly so that they will read it, clearly so they will appreciate it, picturesquely so they will remember it, and above all, accurately so they will be guided by its light.
— Joseph Pulitzer

Whether we're struggling to understand a concept or figure out a software program, a book can illuminate exactly what we need to know in exactly the right way. Good writing triggers that 'ah-ha' moment when we truly grasp something and can then apply it to our life or work.

Connects

There are only two or three human stories, and they go on repeating themselves as fiercely as if they had never happened before. — Willa Cather

When we feel as if we're the only person who's ever lived our particular story, good writing reminds us that we each form a thread in the fabric of shared human existence; with all its beauty, its heartbreak, and its wonder.

Entertains

Humor leavens life. — X. J. Kennedy

Whether a piece of writing elicits a smile, a chuckle, or a stare-inducing guffaw, it helps remind us to look at the lighter side of this business of being alive.

For your reading pleasure...

cover of Microsoft Expression Web For Dummies Microsoft Expression Web For Dummies is now available!

(find out more...)

cover of Greece, A Love StoryRead my travel essay in Greece, A Love Story: Women Write About the Greek Experience.

(read an excerpt...)

Read the "The Soundtrack of Motherhood," (PDF) published in Mothering magazine, July/August 2006. (Have patience; this version contains photos, so the PDF may take a moment to load).

Love chocolate? Read Sweet Completion. (Appeared in slightly different form in ByLine magazine, March 2006).