10 Fail-Proof Writing Tips

by Fran Geiger Joslin

Writing can feel overwhelming and difficult, especially when getting started. I recommend writing a paragraph or blog-length article first. Then go back through your piece, tweaking it with each tip below to gain more interesting content. The more you practice following these rules, the more your writing will improve.

1. KISS—The acronym, “keep it simple, stupid” works well in writing. Although I love great descriptive words, I recommend shying away from words the average person won’t know. You lose readers when trying to impress with big words.
2. Put great action words to use. Instead of saying, “George had some cherries,” say, “George gobbled up a handful of cherries.”
3. Eliminate as many “to be” verbs as possible (am, are, is, was, were). If you use them sparingly, they will pack a bigger punch. Instead of saying, “Sarah was going to the store in anger,” say, “Sarah stomped angrily to the store.”
4. Replace words like “have, had, and has been” with action words. Instead of saying, “Ralph had played baseball for the Texas Rangers,” say, “Ralph played baseball for the Texas Rangers” or “Ralph once played baseball for the Texas Rangers.” The past tense usage of the word “had” can often take a hike. Instead of “Sharon has pneumonia,” say “Sharon contracted pneumonia.”
5. Repeat words sparingly. Only use repetition to make a point. Utilize your thesaurus to find great words. I highlight repeated words and then one by one find new words to replace them.
6. Never begin a sentence with a preposition: In, with, about, etc. Instead of saying, “In February, I put up my Christmas decorations,” say, “I finally packed up my Christmas decorations around Valentine’s Day.”
7. Instead of vague words like “it, them, they, this, etc.” use clear subject words even if you restate the subject for clarity.
8. Welcome editing. Even the best writers need editors. Make your editor your best friend. It’s his job to make you look good. Embrace the learning and “tweaking” process.
9. Join a writers’ group. Writing without input and guidance from others will fall flat.
10. Hone your craft. Constantly challenge yourself to better writing, and practice, practice, practice.