Prose that communicates.
WHAT MAKES WRITING CLEAR
Short sentences Familiar words Active construction One idea per sentence Specific rather than vague terms
WHAT TO CUT
Words adding nothing Qualifications that weaken without adding precision Repetition Introductory phrases delaying the point
WHAT TO REPLACE
Long words where short ones serve Abstract nouns where verbs serve Passive construction where the actor matters
WHY ACTIVE CONSTRUCTION
It states who did what, which is usually the information wanted.
WHEN PASSIVE IS APPROPRIATE
When the actor is unknown or irrelevant, as in describing method.
WHAT TO AVOID
Writing to sound impressive Jargon where a plain term exists Sentences you must read twice
WHAT TO TEST
Read it aloud.
WHY
Sentences that are hard to say are hard to read.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT A SENTENCE YOU CANNOT FIX
Split it.
WHAT TO CHECK
That every sentence says something.
