Capitalize on the Power of Inference
Starting sentences with a verb, a writing technique using the imperative
mood, is a forceful way to make a point, and it implies the pronoun
you. For example, if you write, “Attend the meeting and let me
know whether an agreement is reached,” the reference to your reader is
understood. You’re really saying, “You attend the meeting and you let me
know whether an agreement is reached.” In this example, note that we
would count two references to your reader, because you are implying the
pronoun you twice.
The imperative is a tried-and-true approach that reaches your readers
in a strong and directive manner. By using a forceful tone, you imply
an urgency that encourages a response.
In some circumstances, the imperative is not appropriate. For instance,
in an E-mail to your boss, you might not be comfortable saying “Review