The Jane Schaffer writing method is a versatile framework that empowers writers to create compelling, persuasive, and effective written content. Developed by Jane Schaffer, a renowned writing expert and consultant, this method has gained widespread recognition for its clarity, structure, and practical approach.
Key Principles of the Jane Schaffer Writing Method
- Audience-Centricity: The Jane Schaffer writing method emphasizes a deep understanding of the target audience. Writers are encouraged to define their audience’s demographics, motivations, pain points, and desired outcomes.
- Problem-Solving: The method focuses on solving a specific problem or fulfilling a need for the audience. Writers identify the problem, define its scope, and propose solutions or recommendations.
- Clarity and Conciseness: The Jane Schaffer method promotes clear and concise writing. Writers are encouraged to eliminate jargon, ambiguity, and unnecessary details to ensure the message is effectively conveyed.
- Structure: The framework provides a structured outline that guides writers through the writing process. The outline consists of an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion, each with specific purposes and elements.
- Evidence and Credibility: The method emphasizes the importance of supporting claims with credible evidence. Writers are encouraged to incorporate statistics, research, and expert opinions to bolster their arguments.
Structure of the Jane Schaffer Writing Method
Introduction
- Capture the reader’s attention: Begin with a compelling hook or question that sparks interest.
- Establish the purpose: Clearly state the main topic or issue being explored.
- Provide context: Explain the background or relevance of the topic.
Body Paragraphs
- Develop the argument: Each body paragraph should address a key point or argument related to the main topic.
- Support the argument: Use evidence, examples, and illustrations to support the claims.
- Link the points: Use transition words and phrases to connect the ideas within and between paragraphs.
- Refute opposing views: If necessary, acknowledge and address opposing viewpoints.
Conclusion
- Summarize the main points: Restate the thesis and key arguments in a concise manner.
- Restate the solution or recommendation: Emphasize the desired outcome or the solution proposed.
- Call to action: Encourage readers to take specific actions or engage with the content.
Components of the Jane Schaffer Writing Method
Introduction
- Emotional Hook: 75% of readers form an opinion about a piece of writing within the first 15 seconds.
- Problem Statement: 68% of people are more likely to read an article if it discusses a problem that they face.
Body Paragraphs
- Evidence: 86% of readers believe that content with statistics is more credible.
- Examples: 71% of readers find examples more persuasive than statistics.
- Visuals: 65% of people are visual learners and prefer content with images and graphics.
- Case Studies: 77% of B2B buyers say case studies are the most effective content format for making a purchase decision.
Conclusion
- Call to Action: 90% of readers will take some form of action after reading content if they are given a clear call to action.
- Summary: 84% of people prefer summaries that are no more than 10 sentences.
- Recommendations: 72% of readers find recommendations from experts more helpful than those from peers.
Applications of the Jane Schaffer Writing Method
The Jane Schaffer writing method can be applied to a diverse range of writing projects, including:
| Application | Example |
|---|---|
| Business Proposals | Outline a business proposal’s value, solution, and benefits. |
| Marketing Content | Create engaging content that addresses customer pain points and promotes products or services. |
| Technical Documents | Provide clear and concise instructions or technical information. |
| Speeches and Presentations | Structure and deliver compelling speeches or presentations that persuade or inform the audience. |
| Thought Leadership Articles | Share insights and expertise in a specific domain. |
The Jane Schaffer Writing Method in Action
Let’s consider an example of a blog post written using the Jane Schaffer writing method:
Topic: The Importance of Customer Feedback
Introduction:
- Emotional Hook: “Are you losing customers without even knowing it?”
- Problem Statement: “Many businesses struggle to gather and act on customer feedback, leading to missed opportunities for improvement.”
Body Paragraphs:
- Evidence: “According to a study by SurveyMonkey, 86% of consumers say they are likely to switch brands after a bad customer experience.”
- Example: “A recent case study by Forrester Research revealed how a company significantly increased its customer satisfaction scores by implementing a comprehensive customer feedback program.”
- Visual: A bar graph showcasing the percentage of consumers who are more likely to switch brands after different types of negative customer experiences.
Conclusion:
- Call to Action: “Don’t let your business be one of the ones losing customers due to inadequate feedback. Implement a customer feedback program today to stay ahead of the competition and improve the customer experience.”
- Summary: “In summary, gathering and acting on customer feedback is crucial for businesses to identify pain points, improve products and services, and drive customer loyalty.”
Benefits of the Jane Schaffer Writing Method
- Enhances clarity and conciseness
- Builds credibility and persuasive power
- Guides writers through a structured process
- Helps identify and engage the target audience
- Provides a framework for solving problems and addressing customer needs
Conclusion
The Jane Schaffer writing method is a comprehensive and effective tool for writers seeking to create compelling, persuasive, and engaging written content. By following its principles, writers can develop a deeper understanding of their audience, identify and solve problems, and convey messages with clarity and confidence.
