Writing Tips...

[Man in Black]

What qualifies me to give out writing tips? Normally I'd just keep that information to myself, but for the sake of the writing board, here are my credentials... I was a journalism major - served three years as editor of our college paper and have several published poems and essays. I have over a decade's experience working for a newspaper - everything from hand collating issues to writing feature articles and editing. Most importantly I just love to read good writing.

This thread will be for tips that may help aspiring writers to progress. If you have something to add go ahead, but make sure it is relevant.

[Man in Black]

The first tip I'd like to share deals with repeating words. Over using the same noun, verb, adjective or adverb disrupts the flow of your writing, especially when in the same sentence or even the same paragraph. Sure there are times when you have to double up on a word, but anytime you can avoid it smoothly it will have positive results.

Here is an example. Note the usage of the word "concert" in the passages below.

My sister Hermy invited me to go with her to the Tom Petty concert because I've never seen him in concert. I wanted to go but I had to work during the concert.

Structurally there is nothing wrong with the passage above. It just sounds horrible when said aloud. Take a look at the one below and notice how much better it reads.

My sister Hermy invited me to go with her to the Tom Petty concert because I've never seen him live. I wanted to go but I had to work during the show.


You may find it hard to think of replacement words while you are writing. If that is the case, then finish what you are doing. You can always go back later to make changes while you are proofreading. Keep a thesaurus handy and you may really liven up your style.