How do you write bullet points to “fire off” each thought precisely? It’s easy to spray too many or leave behind gaps like holes in a target. That’s why certain rules of engagement help you write bullet points that land faster and hit harder.
The modern form of bullet points took shape when the 1950 New York News Type Book described them as typographic devices for use alongside asterisks, checks, and other marks in ads. The term “bullet point” later appeared in a 1983 issue of “Datamation” magazine.
Since then, bullet points and slide decks have gone together like peanut butter and chocolate — getting to the good stuff without the fluff. Here’s how to write bullet points well in business communication.
1. Single Bullet Point Theory
Keep to one idea per bullet. Ideally, every dot connects under a common theme, so you’re not firing thoughts at random.
2. Keep Them Concise
A survey found the most important parts of writing bullet points well are simplicity and organization, which convey information quickly and reinforce crucial concepts.
Like Dirty Harry, did you fire six shots, or only five? In writing, your bullets should add up. And don’t waste them on meaningless words, leaving your readers wondering which points you’re trying to make.
Aim for eight or fewer; more than ten in a row can be harder to read. To improve scanning, consider using a numbered list instead — especially for step-by-step content — or break the bullet points into two columns.
More rules of engagement:
- The 7×7 rule: use no more than seven words per line and just seven bullet points.
- Slides: use only three points per slide to convey one concept clearly. They’re ideal for breaking up items in a series.
Example:
Before:
- Increase sales, reduce costs, and improve customer satisfaction.
After:
- Increase sales
- Reduce costs
- Improve customer satisfaction
3. Align Consistently
Unless each bullet is a full sentence, you don’t have to capitalize the first word or use periods. But a capitalized opening word often looks cleaner. Choose one style — full sentences or short phrases — and stick with it.
4. Get Set
To hold interest and avoid repetition, begin each bullet with an action verb.
Example:
Before:
We do a lot of things for start-ups:
- We launch new products
- We handle customer complaints
- We’re in charge of quarterly reports
After:
How we help start-ups run efficiently:
- Launch new products
- Resolve customer complaints
- Prepare quarterly reports
5. Aim for Precision
Think of each bullet as a short headline. If you’re writing for the web, add SEO keywords to your bullets, which can enhance your search appeal.
Bullet points look like mere dots, but they’re your secret weapon for getting to the point. When they’re clear, concise, and consistent, your message stays on target. Ready? Aim, then fire off each of your thoughts.
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How do you write bullet points effectively? Drop your thoughts in the comments.
QUOTES
“Most speeches are like Texas longhorns — a point here, a point there, and a lot of bull in between.” ~ Anonymous
“Bullet points are not just decorations. They are promises — each one a commitment to say something that matters.” ~ Seth Godin
