As a copy editor, one of the most important tasks is to ensure that agreements are written clearly and accurately. Whether it`s a contract, a memorandum of understanding, or any other legal document, taking care of agreements is crucial to avoid misunderstandings or legal disputes. In this article, we`ll discuss the key points to consider when drafting agreements, and how to make sure they`re optimized for search engine optimization (SEO).

1. Use clear and concise language

The first and most important rule of drafting agreements is to use clear and concise language. Avoid using technical terms or legal jargon that may confuse the reader. Keep in mind that agreements should be written for the average person to understand, not just for lawyers or experts in the field. Use short, simple sentences and break up long paragraphs to make the text easier to read. Remember, the goal is to communicate effectively what you want the other party to agree to.

2. Define key terms

Agreements should always define any key terms relevant to the document. This will ensure that both parties understand what is being discussed and avoid any misunderstandings. For example, if you`re drafting a contract for the sale of goods, you should clearly define what “goods” means. You might also want to define terms like “purchase price,” “delivery date,” or “warranty period.” Including definitions will make the agreement precise and more easily understood.

3. Be specific

It`s important to be specific when drafting agreements. Avoid vague or ambiguous language that could be interpreted in different ways. For example, instead of saying “the seller will deliver the goods promptly,” you could specify a deadline, such as “the goods will be delivered no later than 30 days after the date of the agreement.” Being specific will make the agreement more enforceable and reduce the chances of disputes.

4. Use active voice

Using the active voice is important when writing agreements. It makes the text more dynamic and easier to read. The active voice places emphasis on the subject of the sentence and highlights the action being taken. For example, instead of saying “the agreement was signed by the parties,” use “the parties signed the agreement.” The active voice is also better for SEO since it helps the search engines understand the subject matter of the document.

5. Proofread and edit

Finally, it’s important to proofread and edit the agreement before finalizing it. Check for typos, grammatical errors, and formatting issues. Make sure that all the terms are consistent throughout the document, and that there are no contradictions or omissions. You might also want to have someone else review the agreement to ensure that it`s clear and straightforward.

In conclusion, taking care of agreements is an essential part of any copy editor’s job. By using clear and concise language, defining key terms, being specific, using active voice, and proofreading and editing, you can ensure that agreements are written accurately and effectively for both legal purposes and SEO purposes.