How to Write with Precision

If you enjoy writing--or you want to improve as a writer--you have probably heard of precision.

Often times, we use too many words. We want to get our point across so badly, yet we get lost along the way. At some point, we may use jargon or wordy sentences. Not only does this confuse the reader, but it turns him/her away.

Here are five tips to start writing with precision.

1) Read your work aloud.

This tip does not receive enough credit. But you do not realize how your writing sounds unless you read it aloud. Remember that you (as the writer) know what you are trying to say, but the reader has no clue. Anything choppy or jumbled will be revealed. It is much easier to write with precision when you identify what doesn't work.

2) Identify prepositional phrases.

This part occurs after you have already written, when you sit with a pen and highlighter. With your pen, mark off prepositional phrases. Prepositions include words such as "of," "beyond," "across," and "toward." You should not have more than two prepositional phrases per sentence. After this point, your work becomes wordy and hard to understand.

Remember that you want your writing to be as clear as possible.

3) Limit adverbs.

As difficult as it is, try to avoid them. Adverbs modify verbs, adjectives, and other adverbs. These include most -ly words, such as "happily," "really," and "likely." If the sentence makes sense without it, there is no reason to include.

By comparison, my professor in college told us to avoid the adverb "just." Most times, it can be avoided. For example, instead of saying, "It just means a lot to me," you would say, "It means a lot to me." The same point gets across with less words.

4) Use active voice.

This applies to all types of writing. It is better to use active voice than passive voice, and it strengthens your sentences. Instead of saying, "The gift was given to me by Karen," you should say, "Karen gave me the gift." It eliminates extra words in your writing.

5) Remember that less is more.

People overlook the power of editing. But it is a huge component of writing. If you can cut out words, do it. White space is appreciated, particularly within digital writing. If you keep a blog, or you write digital copy, be sure to use white space. People spend a few seconds on your post and form a first impression. Make sure that time counts.

Use sentences that are necessary. Cut anything that isn't.

I hope this list is helpful for you. Let me know how it works!