“SAY LESS”

                  How Not to Lose Your Readers by Using Unnecessary Words

 

In a writer's world, less is often more. Every sentence, word, and punctuation mark you use has the potential to either captivate or alienate your reader. One of the most common mistakes writers make is overloading their work with unnecessary words, leading to a lack of clarity, engagement, and impact. The solution? “Say less.”

 

Here’s how you can refine your writing by embracing simplicity and eliminating excess:

 

1. Respect the Reader’s Time

 

Today’s readers are busy. Whether skimming a blog post on their commute or catching up on emails, they appreciate writing that gets to the point. Rambling sentences and redundant phrases risk losing their attention before you’ve made your point.

 

Instead of:

“Since the meeting was rescheduled to a later time, we will need to adjust our plans accordingly.”

Write:

“The meeting was rescheduled, so we’ll adjust our plans.”

 

2. Eliminate Redundancy

 

Redundancy in writing is like running in circles—you’re putting in the effort but going nowhere. Words like “absolutely essential” or “free gift” double up unnecessarily. Choose precision over repetition.

 

Instead of:

“The reason why this is important is because it helps us achieve our goals.”

Write:

“This is important because it helps us achieve our goals.”

 

3. Cut Out Filler Words

 

Filler words like “very,” “really,” “actually,” and “just” often weaken writing. While they may seem conversational, they rarely add value.

 

Instead of:

“This project is very important and really needs our attention.”

Write:

“This project is important and needs our attention.”

 

4. Use Strong Verbs and Nouns

 

Why use two weak words when one strong word will do? Replace phrasal verbs or vague descriptions with precise alternatives.

 

Instead of:

“She quickly ran across the street to catch the bus.”

Write:

“She sprinted across the street to catch the bus.”

 

5. Be Ruthless in Editing

 

The first draft is your opportunity to pour your ideas onto the page, but the second draft is where you transform them into something powerful. Read your work aloud and ask:

            •           Does this sentence add value?

            •           Can I say the same thing with fewer words?

            •           Am I being repetitive?

 

For example, consider:

“It is important to note that the survey results clearly indicate a preference for simplicity.”

Trimmed down:

“The survey results show a preference for simplicity.”

 

The Benefits of Saying Less

 

Writing with brevity isn’t about cutting corners but respecting your reader and your craft. Clear, concise writing:

            •           Improves readability.

            •           Increases impact.

            •           Builds trust with your audience.

 

By saying less, you say more. Your words carry weight, your ideas shine through, and your readers stay engaged from start to finish.

 

So, remember this simple mantra: SAY LESS the next time you write. You’ll be amazed at how much stronger your writing becomes.