10 Writing Tips from a Real-Life Editor
Tips, tips, tips.
Blog posts containing tips are a dime a dozen, but every now and then you come across some real gold—tips offered by someone who actually knows what they’re talking about. This is one such occasion.
I had the privilege recently to attend a short seminar on writing and editing. One of the sessions was from Greg Bailey, a real-life editor. During His session he offered the following 10 writing tips.
- Know what you’re trying to say.
- Never assume your audience knows what you’re trying to say.
- Find a creative way to approach / introduce what you’re trying to say.
- Write an initial draft quickly.
- Be a great revisor.
- Get rid of unnecessary words.
- Maintain an active voice.
- Use simple sentences. “Simple sentences are beautiful.”
- Let it rest. “Sleep on it.”
- Let it go. “Let it do its job, for good or bad.”