Don’t Underestimate Your Readers

Posted on 19 May 2008 by Ugur Akinci

(Photo courtesy Wikipedia Commons)

Don't write what is obvious.

Eliminate all redundant words and phrases.

Your readers will still get your drift without any over-explanations.

EXAMPLE: The judge sentenced the thief to six years in jail.

BETTER: The judge sentenced the thief to six years.

EXAMPLE: The house was painted green in color.

BETTER: The house was painted green.

EXAMPLE: The whistle had too loud a sound.

BETTER: The whistle was too loud.

EXAMPLE: He was over two hundred pounds in weight.

BETTER: He was over two hundred pounds.

EXAMPLE: Each tire lasts for a predetermined number of miles when the car is driven.

BETTER: Each tire lasts for a predetermined number of miles.

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