Here are a few things to look for: Do a document search for all uses of “that” and “very”—kill as many of them as possible. These words are rarely needed. Reread the piece. Cut as many adverbs as possible. These are words that typically end in -ly (like “typically”). This is especially important when writing dialogue, he said intently. Look for complex sentences using lots of “ands” and “buts”—try simplifying some of them. Reread them and see if the meaning is more clear. Destroy weak phrases like “I think” or “in my opinion” that corrupt your argument. Say what needs to be said, or don’t say
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