Wednesday, May 26, 2010

Leave No Word Unturned

A suggestion for the next time you edit a piece you've written:

Go over every word--every single word--one word at a time. Is it the best word you can use? Can this word be omitted?

Then do the same for every phrase. Is this the best way to express this thought? Can this phrase be omitted?

Do the same for every sentence. Every paragraph. Every chapter.

Yes, this will be a horrendously painstaking and time-consuming task. But when you are done, your writing will be tight, clear, and the very best it can be.

How many authors have enough personal pride in their work to do this? How many authors do you think take the time to do this? Not many.