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GETTING TO THE POINT
Information overload zaps time and energy. If writing is too complicated, most readers put it down before finishing it. People don't want any more information than is absolutely necessary, and they want the information clear and focused. Here are some basic principles in getting to the point:
1. Use Simple Words. Using complicated words may make the writer feel smarter, but they do not necessarily make the writer sound smarter. Thus, use simpler word choices when you have an option.
utilization use prior to before
endeavor try ascertain find out
implement begin subsequent to after
contemplate think facilitate help
2. Be Concise. The fewer redundant and empty words you use, the more powerful your writing becomes. Don't worry about being concise as you compose; make your cuts when you edit.
Example: When you sit down to write about important ideas and issues,
one vitally important aspect of this activity is being concise and
to the point.
Revised: When you write, be concise.
3. Seek Clarity. Clarity relates to voice: active and passive. Does your software ever alert you that you are writing in the passive voice? That can be frustrating if you don't know how to shift sentences from passive voice to active voice. Let's look at how active and passive work.
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In the active voice, the subject performs the action of the verb. |
Example: Alice gave John a tie.
"Alice" is the subject of the sentence; "gave" is the verb; "John" is the indirect object; "tie" is the object. Everything is in logical order: as the subject, Alice performs the action of the verb. As the indirect object, John receives the action (and the tie).
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In the passive voice, the verb does not perform action but rather describes action. |
Example: John was given a tie by Alice.
The subject, John, does not perform action. Alice still performs the action but is no longer the grammatical subject. Thus, the reader needs to work harder to process the message.
The passive voice is even more abstract when the "doer" of the action is not even in the sentence.
Example: John was given a tie.
OR
A tie was given to John.
Change the following passive sentences to active voice
A committee was formed by the president.
The new policy was approved by the board.
New sales quotas were established by the manager.
To revise to active voice, follow these steps:
1. Identify the verb.
2. Ask yourself, "Who performed the action?" (This identifies the real
subject.)
3. Once you have identified the real subject, bring it to the beginning of the
sentence.
4. Place the verb (correct tense, of course) after the real subject and then
complete the sentence.
Answers: The president formed the committee.
The board approved the new policy.
The manager established new sales quotas.
The active voice, using simple words, and being concise are three important elements of any editing strategy because they simplify the message for busy readers. When readers have an easier time understanding the message, they have an easier time responding. Good luck-if you have questions or would like more help with the active voice, send us a message and we'll respond.
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