This “Ask Dalya” series covers 17 of your grantwriting questions. Get lots more Q & A, individual feedback, materials, etc. in the Grantwriter’s FastTrack Coaching Program.

Q: In grant proposals, should we use all of the space given in the application, or is it best to keep it short instead?

A: As I mentioned in my blog post on the 150th anniversary of the Gettysburg Address, my suggestion is always to strive to cultivate conciseness. Regardless of the amount of space you are given on an application you want to focus on brevity: as long as you still clearly make your points. If you have plenty of space, use it wisely. Just remember that your readers receive an overwhelming number of applications; if your proposal is easy to skim then it is enjoyable and informative to read and leaves the reader with a positive feeling. Look to strike the right balance.

Got questions about how YOU can use your writing to make a difference? Send them to my assistant, Leslie Rivera, and I’ll answer them on the blog.