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Consequently, we could save a lot of time by only generating and attaching "TPS

Reports" to task-specific e-mails and not all e-mails.

Whoever reads or hears this paragraph knows by the second sentence what the

paragraph is going to be about: streamlining e-mails.

If this were a longer piece with other streamlining suggestions, then we would want
an introductory paragraph that tells the audience that we are going to discuss

streamlining in general and specifically address X,Y and Z (X, Y and Z would be

whatever your specific ideas are).

In addition to offering simple clarification, stating your intent helps ensure that your

ideas will progress logically because it forces you to identify exactly what you want

to say from the beginning. Often, when our ideas do not flow logically it is because
we are not exactly sure what we are trying to say. Pin down your point early and then

support it so other people can too.

More Info: Once you finish collecting your ideas, examine them.

Is there anything there that does not relate directly to your specific

point? If so, then cut it. Kicking out the extraneous information will
help keep your points well-connected and the logical progression of

your arguments clear and easy to follow.

Outlining Arguments

Previously, we discussed the usefulness of outlines, and we noted that outlines are a

great way to lay out your ideas so that an audience can follow a presentation more
easily. In addition to this, however, outlines can also:

Help you remember your ideas.

Help you plan your speech, letter, negotiating session, essay or presentation.
Assist you with analyzing your arguments for logical structure.

TX Marketing II: Negotiation Techniques 115