10 Ways to Self-Edit and Improve Your Writing

10 Ways to Self-Edit and Improve Your Writing

Every editor has their own pet-peeves after working in the business a certain number of years. Different writers have their own common mistakes and commonalities, but there are certain things you can do to improve your writing skills. These are particularly helpful for people who write copy and business writing (blogs and websites). Without further ado, these are the top 10 ways to self-edit and become a better writer.

1. The Elegant Variation

This is a term that means replacing rare or poetic words instead of their more common meanings. The effect is not elegant at all and looks like you’re trying too hard. It’s easy to overdo that, and you’re actually a better writer by keeping it simple even if you repeat a word here and there.

2. SAT Words

This is similar to the elegant variation and it’s when you use big SAT words to sound fancy but that no one really uses. Writers usually have their favorite 10$ word, like plethora or proleptic, but they actually cause most readers to cringe or disengage. In fact, the most successful ads are the ones that are at a 9th grade level.

3. Latinate Words

Choosing Latinate words instead of Germanic or Anglo-Saxon words is often an alienating choice. You can come across as too academic. For example, “utilized” is often written instead of “use” even though they have the same meaning; the former sounds a lot stuffier.

4. Misused Words

“There are some words that sound correct but are actually wrong, such as “honing in on a problem” which is actually supposed to be “home”. This comes from homing pigeons or devices,” explains Derryl Kitch, an editor at Elite assignment help and State Of Writing. Other words are comprised, bemused, or nonplussed. Instead, avoid using these types of clichés altogether.

5. Exaggeration

Business and marketing writers commonly make this mistake because they’re trying to sell something so they want to pump it up. The problem here is you can often come across like a sleazy salesperson. Try to limit exaggerations and just stick with facts.

6. Assumptions

Just because you’ve heard something a lot, it doesn’t make it true. You don’t want to make the mistake of not factchecking something or not backing up something you say just because you assume it’s true.

7. Metaphors

Metaphors are usually bad; it’s rare that they make your writing better. The worst is the forced, over-the-top cliché metaphor that doesn’t actually make sense to a reader. It’s the same problem with mixed metaphors. They don’t usually strengthen your writing.

8. Lack of Data 

Why not add some data or stats for extra authority? Look for research and back up what you’re saying, so you’re not just making assumption. It also helps people understand why what you’re talking about is important. If you can’t find research that’s applicable or recent, don’t bother. You also don’t want to look for sources that are just parroting what you say. You want to challenger your assumptions. If you find something that contradicts what you were trying to say, maybe you shouldn’t be saying it.

9. Add Detail

Details are the meat and potatoes of your writing. It’s the texture that brings your writing to life. You don’t want to just put basic, boring details, though, especially if it’s not applicable. “Stay away from details that won’t add anything to the story you’re telling. Even if you’re writing nonfiction, you want to add details – interesting ones. Observe what’s happening around you and what stands out. If it’s relevant, add it,” suggests Terry Fitcherson, a writer at BoomEssays and Essay Services.

10. Tell Your Readers Something New

The point of writing, especially nonfiction, is to share something with people they don’t know. Teach something. Surprisingly, a lot of writing out there doesn’t do that, and is therefore pointless. To be a great writer, learn things constantly so you can share with people this knowledge. 

Add interesting facts to your writing by collecting it as you go and adding it when you can. Suggest resources for people to read more if you’re not an expert. Share your tips if you are an expert. Your writing is immediately more exciting when you have something to give people and they have a reason to stick around and keep reading.

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Beatrix Potter, an editor with Essay Assignment Help and Write My Paper, shares her writing and editing tips with her readers. Although her expertise is creative writing, Beatrix is also passionate about gathering facts and sharing them with her audience at University Assignments.

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Category: How To and Tips