Writing Lite Tip 43: Use adjectives sparingly. Adverbs, even more so.

You may already know adverbs are an indication of lazy writing – the right verb can do just as much as an adverb. But think, too, about the adjectives you use. Two are plenty to modify a noun, if they’re the right ones. More than two makes the writing seem shaky, as if you’re not quite sure the reader will “get” it.

Trust yourself to come up with the right adjectives. Remember, you can always supplement them with a well-chosen simile or metaphor. The only exception to this is when you are intentionally trying to establish a rhythm or mood to the prose. Read James Crumley or Raymond Chandler for examples.

You can see all my Writing Lite tips thus far here on Pinterest.

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