Make Copy Shine By Editing 2023

Photo by Lilly Blue

TRIMMING DOWN

No one likes the Department of Redundancy Department.

We are only given so many column inches to convey our story. Because our verbal real estate is limited, every word must be painstakingly chosen and extra words or phrases must be eliminated. It is not how long the story is that determines its strength, it is the quality of the piece. Editing will help the piece focus on the angle and maintain clarity. Also remember to avoid using clichés. By definition, clichés are overused phrases that are boring and have no place in writing. Edit out these trite phrases.

ACTIVITY

Your Name:

Beware of these common offenders of superfluous language. Circle or highlight the repetitive language in each sentence. Then, rewrite the sentence. REMOVE REPETITIVE WORDS

EXAMPLE: The forward progress of the program brought positive attention to the school.

BREAKDOWN — The word “progress” implies moving forward. To add “forward” as an adjective is redundant. Deleting the word “forward” will not change the meaning of the sentence and will add to its clarity. 1. Swim practice begins at 6:30 a.m. in the morning. 2. The new recruits for ROTC had to run the obstacle course. 3. The crowded mob rushed the field. 4. The students studied the past history of the Vietnam War. 5. She made sure that the notes were written down. 6. The team celebrated their victorious win. 7. He referred back to his textbook for the answer. 8. The committee members came to a mutual agreement. 9. There was a brief moment of peace before the storm hit during the festival. 10. An old antique trophy was stolen from the gym.

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