How can I be more concise in my writing?

It can be important in academic writing to be concise, both to help with the clarity of your ideas and to keep within word count for particular assignments.

The following are tips for being concise in your writing:

• Use direct language. Avoid using sentences that use "there are" or "here is" in their construction.

• Use active, direct verbs. (e.g., "He ate the apple" rather than "The apple was eaten by him.")

• Delete any words that give unnecessary emphasis (e.g., "very," "really").

• Cut out any unnecessary description.

• Remove any information that is not essential to the core sentence. You can always go back and insert details if you feel they are relevant.

• Use simple sentences—you can always go back to vary your sentence structure.

• Choose clear, specific words.

Additional Resources:

• Consult more tips on how to be precise and concise in your writing.
• Read the blog post "To use or to utilize" for more tips on concise writing.

Further Questions?

Would you like a current or future assignment to be reviewed by the Writing Center?  If so please visit the Writing Center's Paper Reviews webpage and make an appointment with us!

Do you have other general writing questions? Ask OASIS.

Other questions about your doctoral capstone or the form and style review? Email the form and style editors at [email protected].

Want to peruse other writing resources? Go to the Writing Center’s home page.