I have spent years in Georgia’s educational system. I have been taught to write well though out sentences with a specific tone and different types of imagery. I have learned that I can extend sentences to fit a certain word count. The problem is now I need to “unlearn” how to extend sentences. Now I need to learn how to get straight to my point. I chose the Grammar Girl post called How to Write Clear Sentences.
Here are some of the tips that I have found most useful:
- Try to avoid If . . . instead insert an infinitive. For example instead of saying ” if any of you want to learn more about grammar . . .” say “to learn more about grammar . . .”
- Avoid redundant words: quite, actually, much, fairly, very, ect.
- The strongest sentences begin with a Subj. + Verb combination or just with a verb.
- Avoid unnecessary helping verbs.
- Be careful with the word make. Ex: “He will be making the decision to . . .”
I learned to write clearer sentences by revising the sentences. Her biggest suggestion was to go back through my writing and make changes.
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September 21, 2010 at 10:25 AM
skglover
I also feel like Georgia’s education system has taught me how to expand my writing and drag things out. Writing clear and consice statements was never a priority in any of my writing classes until college. In most of my classes a word count still applies, but you have to make the very most of every word to get your point across in the best way possible. Grammer Girl’s article gave some great and easy to remember tips about how to stick to the point. Eliminating fluff from your papers is a great way to be taken more seriously and to give yourself room to make more important points.
September 21, 2010 at 1:52 PM
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