Although originally used to characterize human conversation, these maxims apply equally to written communication. I keep them posted where all can see them.
1. Do not say what you believe to be false.
2. Do not say that for which you lack adequate evidence.
3. Be relevant.
4. Make your contribution as informative as required.
5. Do not make you contribution more informative than is required.
6. Avoid obscurity of expression.
7. Avoid ambiguity.
8. Be brief.
9. Be orderly.
From H.P. Grice, Language Files (Department of Linguistics, Ohio State, 1994)
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