1. Word Choice

2. Delete synonymous and wordy material in a sentence
Incorrect: Today is a wet and rainy day. Correct: Today is a rainy day. (If it is rainy, then it is wet.)

4. Avoid wordiness!
Write as simply and clearly as possible. Incorrect: Finishing my essay by Friday will be impossible without some kind of extra help. Correct: Finishing my essay by Friday will be impossible without some extra help.

5. Filler Words Kind of Sort of Type of Really Basically Particular
Definitely
actually
Generally
Individual
Specific
For all intents and purposes

7. Synonymous Pairs in Writing
Past memories
Various differences
Each individual
Basic fundamentals
True facts
Future plans
Terrible tragedy
End result
Free gift
Past history
Unexpected surprise
Completely finish
Large/small in size
Round/square in shape
Heavy/light in weight
Period in time
Choose one set of synonymous pairs and explain WHY these are wordy/unnecessary.
Example: You will receive a free gift if you spend $20 at our store. (All gifts are free).
Correct: You will receive a gift if you spend $20 at our store.

8. Writing Style
A writer should always keep the same style throughout a piece of writing.

9. Formal vs Informal
Formal: Use proper, standard grammar if writing to an unknown audience or for the purpose of something important like a job application.
Example: I am applying for the receptionist position advertised in the local paper. I am an excellent candidate for the job because of my significant experience
Informal: A writer can choose to use slang or idioms if they are writing to a familiar audience, like friends or for the purpose of something like a journal.
Example: I want to talk about the job ad you put in the paper. I’m a great person to work there because I am da bomb!

10. Word Choice/Diction
Many words have similar meanings but different feelings attached to them. A writer chooses specific words to convey his exact meaning.
Example: I dumped my books on the desk.
I placed my books on the desk.