Lesson 46 of 46

Writing concisely

Cut filler so your message is short and clear.

The rules

  1. 1.Replace wordy phrases: "in order to" → "to", "due to the fact that" → "because", "at this point in time" → "now".
  2. 2.Cut empty openers such as "I am writing to inform you that" when the point can start immediately.
  3. 3.Prefer active voice and strong verbs: "We decided" instead of "A decision was made".
  4. 4.Say each idea once. Delete repeated words like "each and every" or "past history".

Common mistakes and fixes

Incorrect: Due to the fact that it rained, we stayed home.

Correct: Because it rained, we stayed home.

Shorter and clearer.

Incorrect: I am writing to let you know that the meeting has been cancelled.

Correct: The meeting is cancelled.

Lead with the news.

Incorrect: In order to succeed, you must work hard.

Correct: To succeed, work hard.

Cut filler words.

Watch out: If a word can be deleted without changing the meaning, delete it.

Quick quiz

1. Shorter version of "in order to":
2. Best replacement for "due to the fact that":
3. Which is more concise?

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Practice on your own writing

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