Cut Back 7 Little Words: A Guide to Concise Writing
Concise writing is a powerful skill. It allows you to communicate your message clearly and efficiently, avoiding unnecessary words and phrases that can confuse or bore your reader. Cutting back on seven little words might seem insignificant, but the cumulative effect on your writing can be dramatic, improving clarity and impact. This guide will explore strategies for achieving this.
What Does "Cutting Back 7 Little Words" Mean?
This isn't about removing any seven words. It's about identifying and eliminating redundant, weak, or unnecessary words and phrases, thereby streamlining your writing and strengthening your message. Think of it as a process of refinement, not arbitrary deletion.
Common Culprits: Words and Phrases to Eliminate
Many words and phrases bloat sentences without adding meaning. Here are some frequent offenders:
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Redundant phrases: "Completely and totally destroyed," "past history," "absolutely essential," "end result." The core meaning is already present in the single word ("destroyed," "history," "essential," "result").
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Weak verbs: Verbs like "is," "are," "was," "were," and "seems" often weaken sentences. Replace them with stronger, more active verbs that convey more precise action. For example, instead of "The dog is running," try "The dog sprints."
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Unnecessary adverbs: Adverbs sometimes add unnecessary embellishment. Often, a stronger verb eliminates the need for an adverb. For instance, "He ran quickly" becomes "He sprinted."
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Filler words: Words like "very," "really," "quite," and "actually" often add little to the meaning. Try removing them and see if the sentence still makes sense.
How to Cut Back 7 (or More) Little Words
Here's a practical approach:
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Read your work aloud: This helps you identify awkward phrasing and unnecessary words. You'll hear the rhythm and flow of your sentences more clearly.
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Identify weak verbs and adverbs: Circle them and look for stronger replacements.
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Eliminate redundant phrases: Condense them into single words or stronger alternatives.
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Remove filler words: These often clutter your writing without adding value.
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Use strong nouns and verbs: Precise nouns and verbs convey more meaning than weak ones.
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Revise and edit: Repeat the process until your writing is clear, concise, and impactful.
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Seek feedback: Ask someone else to review your work and point out areas for improvement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What if removing words changes the meaning?
A: Careful! The goal is to eliminate unnecessary words without altering the core message. If removing a word changes the intended meaning, then it's essential to retain it.
Q: Is it okay to write longer sentences sometimes?
A: Absolutely. Concise writing isn't about always using short sentences. It's about eliminating unnecessary words while maintaining a natural and readable flow.
Q: How can I practice concise writing?
A: Practice regularly! Edit your own writing, paying close attention to word choice and sentence structure. Read works by concise writers and analyze their techniques.
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you can significantly improve your writing's clarity and impact by cutting back on those unnecessary seven little words—and many more!
