Josh Bernoff's Soundview podcast examines how writers waste words (see below). The average reader spends 36 seconds on an article. I am guilty.
He suggests fixes.
- Shorten...use word limits.
- Get to the point. (Don't bury the lead)
- Simplify.
- Avoid jargon unless necessary.
- Eliminate weasel words.
Clarity:
Avoid passive voice and weasel words (qualifiers and intensifiers).
We seek change via writing:
- Who is the audience?
- What is the objective?
- What do you want from the reader?
- What will the reader think of you?
Consider these when outlining.
I will work not to wasteyour time.
Here's Bernoff in the public domain...demanding better writing.