New Intro not much clear.

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Gasto

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Jun 30, 2008, 12:22:51 AM6/30/08
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I had difficulty reading:

Learn free open source software
by watching it get used and
programming by seeing it get done.

it is quite difficult to link the predicate object with the subject:

subject: You.

predicate object: 'open source software' and 'programming' , yet both
are separated too far away from each other. also 'by watching it get
used', sounds unnatural between its context. A more adecuate frase
would be: 'by watching it work , and ...'

I know I am not a english native speaker, but I have an instinct for
these stuff after studying so many languages. Consult with a
journalist or book editor to stay assured

just my 2 cents.

Cheers.

Lucas Holland

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Jun 30, 2008, 1:19:56 AM6/30/08
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First of all, I'd say "Free *and* Open Source Software". Sounds better
to me. As for Gastro's criticism, I can't really say I'd noticed ;-).
It's fine by me, but if people find it difficult to read, you should
think about changing the text!

Kyran Dale

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Jun 30, 2008, 4:13:29 AM6/30/08
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@Lucas - quite right. Will add the 'and'
@gasto - hmm. I think I can see your point - maybe 'learn Free and OSS
[...], learn programming [...]. Two 'learns' for the price of one and
less subject-object distance. re. the rest of the wording, it was
thrown together - i'll consult with a copywriting friend and canvas a
little more feedback.

As ever, thanks for the suggestions guys,
kyran

Gasto

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Jun 30, 2008, 12:40:00 PM6/30/08
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>Two 'learns' for the price of one and
> less subject-object distance. re. the rest of the wording, it was
> thrown together - i'll consult with a copywriting friend and canvas a
> little more feedback.

I completely agree, two learns. But maybe your friend has a more
elegant solution.
I know it seems absurd to discuss these simple things, but having a
clear and generic frase might be the difference between loosing and
winning supporters. :)

Have a nice day.
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