writing is a funny thing.
It’s like a conversation but with a little more time to think about what you want to say.
And just like any conversation there are some things that are better left unsaid.
Over the years I’ve learned that certain writing habits are like that – they can really get in the way of getting your point across.
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5 Bad Writing Habits to Drop Right Now
Ready to ditch those bad writing habits and become a writing wizard? 🧙♂️ Learn how to level up your writing
Now I know this can be a tough topic to talk about because it’s easy to get caught up in these habits without even realizing it.
But trust me if you can take a step back and examine your writing you’ll be surprised how much better it can be.
So let’s dive into these 5 bad writing habits and see how you can drop them for good.
1. The Overuse of Exclamation Points
Remember those bright flashy signs you used to see in your childhood? They were full of exclamation points shouting at you to pay attention.
Well sometimes that same feeling applies to writing.
Too many exclamation points can feel like someone is shouting in your ear – and it’s not exactly the best way to connect with your readers.
when I was younger I thought exclamation points were a way to add excitement to my writing.
“Wow!” I thought “This will really make my sentences pop!” But the truth is it’s better to let your words speak for themselves.
A well-crafted sentence brimming with strong verbs and evocative imagery has more impact than a barrage of exclamation points.
If you’re not sure when to use an exclamation point ask yourself: “Would I say this out loud with a loud voice?” If the answer is yes then maybe an exclamation point is appropriate.
But remember use it sparingly.
Just like a splash of color in a painting too much of a good thing can ruin the whole effect.
2. Writing Long Paragraphs that Drag On Forever
I’ve always loved a good story but even I have my limits.
When I see a huge block of text I can’t help but feel a bit overwhelmed.
It’s like walking into a room with no windows – you feel trapped and a little suffocated.
That’s what happens with long rambling paragraphs.
Your readers can get lost in the sea of words and lose sight of the main point.
They might skim through it missing important details and key insights.
It’s like baking a cake: you need to break it up into smaller manageable pieces to create a beautiful delicious masterpiece.
The same goes for writing.
By dividing your text into smaller paragraphs you’re giving your readers the opportunity to pause breathe and take in what they’re reading.
Think of it like a conversation.
You wouldn’t just keep talking for hours on end without taking a breath would you? No you’d pause let the other person speak and engage in a natural flow of dialogue.
The same applies to writing.
Break up those long paragraphs and you’ll create a more engaging and readable piece of work.
3. Buzzwords: The Unwanted Noise in Your Writing
Ah buzzwords.
they’re like those pesky little flies that keep buzzing around your head – they’re everywhere and they’re annoying.
In the business world we love our buzzwords.
We throw them around like confetti at a party but the truth is they often lack meaning.
Sometimes these buzzwords start out as clever and creative but over time they become overused and lose their impact.
Think of it like a joke you’ve heard a hundred times – it’s no longer funny it’s just annoying.
If you’re using a buzzword ask yourself: Does it truly add value to your writing? Does it help to clarify your point or make it more engaging? If the answer is no then it’s probably time to drop it.
Instead of relying on buzzwords focus on using clear concise language that resonates with your readers.
4. The Story That Gets Lost in Translation
Stories can be powerful tools in writing.
They can connect with readers on an emotional level and help them understand complex ideas.
But like any tool stories need to be used wisely.
Think of a story as a beautiful tapestry.
Each thread needs to be carefully woven together to create a harmonious whole.
And just like a tapestry a story needs to have a clear purpose.
It needs to reinforce the main point of your writing and add value to your overall message.
It’s like those times when you’re having a conversation and someone starts telling you a story that has nothing to do with the topic at hand.
It’s frustrating isn’t it? And that’s exactly how your readers will feel when they’re reading a story that doesn’t contribute to the main point.
So if you’re going to tell a story make sure it’s relevant and helps to strengthen your argument.
Don’t just throw it in there for the sake of it.
5. Vagueness: Leaving Your Readers in the Dark
Now we all know that a little bit of mystery can be intriguing.
But when it comes to writing vagueness can leave your readers confused and frustrated.
It’s like being in a dark room with no light.
You can’t see anything and you have no idea what’s going on.
That’s what happens when writing is too vague – it leaves your readers in the dark wondering what you’re trying to say.
I’ve always believed that good writing is clear and concise.
It’s like a beacon in the night guiding your readers through your ideas and helping them understand your message.
Don’t leave them guessing.
Make your point clear and explicit.
Remember writing is a gift.
It’s a way to share your thoughts ideas and stories with the world.
And just like any gift it should be wrapped with care and presented with clarity.
Drop those bad writing habits and you’ll be surprised how much more impactful your writing can be.
Ready to ditch those bad writing habits and become a writing wizard? 🧙♂️ Learn how to level up your writing