top of page

How To Edit A Text

Writer: Marianne Cooper-vd Veen Marianne Cooper-vd Veen

When it comes to writing a text, editing is everything. Some believe in "the more the merrier", I believe in "writing means deleting." Why? Because every needless word is a step closer to losing the focus of your reader!


So how do you narrow down your words and still get to say what you want to say? Check out my step-by-step guide that'll help you get you started!

  • Write down everything that comes to mind in the first draft

  • Erase words and details with no added value, keeping your main subject in mind (focus!)

  • Delete or replace unnecessary long and/or outdated words (very, really, hence, etc.)

  • Be as concise and complete as possible (fundamental questions: Who, What, When, Where, Why and How)

  • Use the active verb instead of passive ("Marianne wrote the blog" vs. "The blog was written by Marianne")

  • Use the shortest form of the word (concept instead of conceptualisation)

  • Alternate short and long sentences (max. 25 words per sentence) for a pleasant reading rhythm

  • Keep your paragraphs between 250-300 words

  • Don't repeat yourself

There's nothing to it but to do it, so let's get started!


Write without fear edit without mercy

Comments


Marianne Cooper-van der Veen logo

© Marianne Cooper-van der Veen

Copyright and Disclaimer

You are permitted to browse this site and to reproduce extracts by way of printing, and by distribution to other people, but ONLY for informational purposes and provided that the source is mentioned in all such reproductions. No reproduction of any part of the site may be sold or distributed for commercial purposes or altered or included in any other work or publication, whether in the form of a print or electronic form, including the sending to another site, inclusion in another website ("framing") or linking to this site, unless prior written consent from this publisher has been granted. No license, nor right is granted. 
DISCLAIMER: The editor accepts no liability for any incorrect information displayed on this site. If insulting language is uttered, the publisher reserves the right to remove the text.

bottom of page