Filler = repetition without intent. Rhythm is repetition with intent. The difference typically isn’t felt; it’s measured in percentages. That is why we pay attention to the density of mentions. How do most editors check for overused words? They trust their instincts. They look at a page, squint and guess whether or not something have […]

Numbers are invisible to you until a pile-up of number words accumulates in your writing. You read your manuscript draft out loud and it sounds good, but then an editor picks up on the invisible weight of numbers. Usually, it isn’t a character problem or even a plot problem. It’s the numerical language itself that […]

So how do we ensure our specialized texts remain clear? The calculator on top measure how often you use abbreviations, repeat short forms, miss definitions, or group too many sentences together. This helps you stay clear while being brief. Do this before someone in editing tells you. How to Use Acronyms Clearly Maybe you’re reading […]

Using abbreviations can be helpful if you’re trying to be more efficient. But they’re also biggest cause of clunky prose. What’s the solution? When to use a short cut, and when not to. Have you ever read an abstract from an academic article and found yourself thinking “this isn’t teaching me anything; I’m just trying […]