Writing in Economy and Precision

Writing Tutorial

Sometimes problems with writing are not caused by errors in grammar or sentence structure. In fact, the sentence may be grammatically and mechanically correct, and yet the meaning may still be unclear. These problems can rise from poor style or mistakes in diction.

Style is how you use words and sentences to express your meaning. Diction refers to your choice and use of words.

Writing in Economy and Precision:

When you write, your most important goal should be to make your meaning clear. To write clearly, do not confuse your reader with more words than necessary. Choose words that are as exact as possible. Here is an example of a sentence in which too many words make the meaning unclear.

An article in a book that Susan was reading states that walking in which the walker moves briskly is an exercise that is excellent.

Grammatically, there is nothing wrong with this sentence. However, to know what is said, you must read carefully. The problem is too many words make the meaning unclear. To make this kind of sentence clear, simplify it.

An article in a book Susan was reading states that brisk walking is an excellent exercise.

Even more simplification makes the meaning clearer.

An article states that walking is an excellent exercise.

In making the sentence so brief, some ideas are lost. However, this information is probably not important to the reader. The message in the final version is what the writer really wants the reader to understand.

Here are some suggestions for making writing more economical and precise.

Avoid repeating ideas. Writers often unnecessarily repeat ideas. For example,

Lemonade is equally as refreshing as orange juice.

Better: Lemonade is as refreshing a orange juice.

or: Lemonade and orange juice are equally refreshing.

A common example of repetition occurs when writers want to avoid sounding too sure of themselves. Then phrases like I think creep into the writing.

In my opinion, I think you should cite examples to support your point.

Better: In my opinion, you should cite examples to support your point.

Best: You should cite examples to support your point.

Repetitious; In my opinion, it seems to me that nowadays there's too much violence on TV.

Better: In my opinion, nowadays there's too much violence on TV.

Best: There's too much violence on TV.

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