Editors' Page

One of the most common mistakes new writers make is “wordiness.” Remember Occam’s razor? In science, it’s the premise that the best theory is the simplest theory, and touts eliminating extraneous verbiage. The same thing can be said for good writing. Be straightforward–say what you want to say. Then add your gorgeous, creative, descriptive words and similes, but with a selective hand. There’s nothing more awkward than “He gestured angrily toward her with a wagging finger, aimed at letting her know she had committed a terrible atrocity, one he wouldn’t forget for a long, long period of time.”

Instead, try “‘That was atrocious,’ he wagged a furious finger. ‘I’ll never forget it.'”

Or, “His finger wagged in her face like a metronome. He’d never forget this atrocity. Never.”

You’ll feel the difference in your writing. And so will the folks who read it.

–Carol Morrison

Tips for Self-editing

• Create a self-editing process or checklist for yourself that you repeat for all your writing. Include a list of your usual mistakes and spelling errors–you'll most likely repeat them.

• Read your sentences backwards and your writing aloud. It forces you to notice individual words and listen to what you have written, which gives you another perspective on word choice, honesty of dialogue, and spelling.

• Keep a list of feedback you have received about your writing from others. This may help you hone in on your weaknesses and quickly eliminate them from your writing.

–Tina Talbot