Keep it simple

Here’s a reminder of one of the most important writing tips of all: keep it simple.

Roger von Oech’s recent post on how to simplify includes this snippet of a conversation with an editor to illuminate the point…

Editor: “I like your book except for the ending.”
Author: “What’s wrong with the ending?”
Editor: “It should be closer to the beginning.”

There are loads of different ways you can simplify what you’re writing.  Here are some I use.

Stand up, walk away, come back and read your material with fresh eyes.  Cut out excess words.  Use short, plain words.  Avoid jargon.  Stick to one main point.  Remember what it was you were trying to say in the first place.

Any favourite techniques for keeping your writing simple?