Become a better writer with this one lesson
Easy Read
Cut. It. Out.
47 years ago William Zinsser, Author of On Writing Well: The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction, wrote:
“Examine every word you put on paper. You'll find a surprising number that don't serve any purpose.”
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More often than not, you’ll find top writers rewrite a piece twenty times.
They become merciless when it comes to rewriting and editing. Obsessively-compulsive about making every syllable work.
Like varnishing a painting they’ve just completed.
It’s a skill they’ve mastered. And one you should too.
Think of it like this…
Writing is communicating. Communication should be simple. If your writing isn't clear, spend more time sweating over your words. Edit them. Tinker with them. Make a fetish of brevity.
With each pass, your copy will be more concise, more effective. Clear.
Ask these questions to get going…
“Does this edit say the same thing, quicker?”
“Do I really need this word?”
“Do I like **what I've written?”
Every word should serve a purpose. Any that clog-up clarity need murdered.
“Weak writing won’t cut it” said John Carlton. “That’s why my most common advice to rookies is to rewrite more. Edit more viciously.”
Pay attention to how the words and sentences make you feel. Then trust your gut to trim the fat.
Your severity will be rewarded.
And pretty soon you’ll be writing short, thorough and concise winners. Just like the masters.
