Writing FAST - Jeff Bollow 2012

Talk it onto the page
Talktation: The new art of speed writing
Apply

When you’re first using the Talktation technique, it helps to say each word out loud. Think of writing as talking onto the page.

They’re really no different, y’know. One form of communication (writing) is written; the other (talking) is verbal. They’re two sides to the same coin.

The only difference is time.

When we listen to someone talk, we excuse a lot of sloppy communication. Notice how often people say “um” and “uhh.” Or how they go through stray ideas on their way to the point.

But we forgive that when we talk. Why? Because when we talk, we’re closer to the speed of thought. And thoughts don’t come out perfectly formed. And we know that. So it’s okay. And you give the speaker some leeway.

But we wouldn’t forgive it in writing! Written communication took time to get to you. Think of the time between my writing this book, and you reading it. Time has passed! And since time has passed, the reader assumes there’s been enough time to weed out all those mistakes. (And you will — later!)

But that time is the only difference between writing and talking. You have time to fix it later. For now, talk your words onto the page. Get them there as quickly as possible!

When you get your head around Talktation — talking your words onto the page, your fingers in sync with your thoughts — it will literally revolutionize your writing.