Getting the Words Right

Shorten or remove whole chapters, sections, and paragraphs -- Shorten or remove superfluous, ineffective, or redundant sentences and words -- Replace longer words with shorter ones -- Keep unity of subject and scope -- Keep a unified tone -- Keep a unified style -- Keep a consistent point of view and unity of character -- Keep episodes unified -- Keep verb tenses consistent -- Keep paragraphs and sentences to the point and unified -- Organize according to the logic of time, space, and degree of specificity -- Avoid pronoun ambiguity -- Use coherent word order and phrasing -- Use parallel structure -- Make effective transitions -- Establish coherent beginnings -- Develop consistency through the middle -- Write effective and coherent endings -- Put the parts into the right proportions -- Put important things anywhere but in the middle -- Understand the psychology of emphasis -- Use effective repetition of words, phrases, sounds, and ideas -- Vary the length of sentences, paragraphs, and chapters -- Emphasize through careful word choice and positioning -- Use spaces, pauses, and special typography for extra emphasis -- Avoid things that kill emphasis -- Develop and recognize your own special style -- Select the best word, best phrasing, most effective diction -- Improve your diction with shorter, more active words -- Scrutinize your verbs; keep them active -- Limit modifiers -- Appeal to the senses -- Use concrete details -- Be sensitive to rhythm and sound -- Use the sounds of words, and use words to imitate sounds -- Use figurative language -- Watch out for misuse of figurative language -- Avoid distractors and detractors -- Watch for common misspellings and incorrect usages.