- Clear
- Concise
- Coherent
- Correct
- Complete
- Candid
- Courteous

These are the 7-Cs suggested by Francis T.Bergin, an expert in Communication. They should be followed in order to improve communication skills. Speaking and Writing are the two productive skills of English language. Whether it is for speaking or for writing, follow the Golden Rule of 7-Cs so as to become successful communicators. We shall now discuss these 7-Cs and we have to focus more on the first five characteristics which contribute to effective speaking and writing.

Whatever you speak or write should be clear in expression. Clarity should be aimed at in communication. Do not use words or sentences which are ambiguous. Avoid long-winded sentences which will confuse the listener or reader. Use simple and lucid expressions to achieve clarity. Using bombastic language is not a mark of scholarship. Do not attempt to show off your knowledge and erudition by using words that are beyond the comprehension of the listener or reader.

Remember that ‘Brevity is the soul of wit’. Be concise, because no one has the time to read long passages, letters etc. Be as brief as possible in your spoken and written English. Wordiness is the opposite of conciseness and hence should be avoided. Padding of too many words confounds the meaning and mars the effect. If you go through the great speeches and letters written by prominent personalities like Gandhiji, Nehru and   Sarojini Naidu, you will surely appreciate the point that all of them followed the principle of conciseness in their speeches and writings.

Anything that we say or write should have coherence. When we think of something, ideas rush to our mind in a jumbled manner .Our skill lies in arranging those ideas in a coherent manner. Arrange the ideas in a sequential order starting with a beautiful introduction. First impressions are lasting impressions and so, the opening should begin with a ‘bang’. Then develop the middle in a natural and original style of your own. Finally, give a finishing touch to conclude meaningfully. This will leave a lasting impression on the minds of the readers and listeners. This skill can be acquired by constant practice.

Aim at grammatical correctness. We have to aim at 100% correctness in the matter of grammar. There is no compromise or short cut method. Learn grammar rules and know the usage. It is more important to know the usage than to by heart the rules. Any good grammar book will give you the rules and exercises. Do the exercises so as to become familiar with the language usage. Keep using those sentences in your daily speech and writing. If you are not in regular touch, you tend to forget.

Add a touch of completeness by concluding logically. Any piece of writing or speech should be logical and psychological. Conclude with an anecdote or a humorous joke. That will leave audience enthused for a long time .Conclude when the audience are asking for more. Then the speech acquires a special aura and it leaves a lasting impression.
Finally, be candid in your approach. Do not forget to use polite words. Courtesy always wins the hearts of people. Use polite expressions which please people. You may win a favour easily if you are polite and courteous.

Therefore, it is imperative to remember and follow the 7Cs so as to become effective communicators in your social interaction.