Word count limits can be a writer’s nightmare, whether you’re crafting a manuscript, submitting an article, or contributing to a multi-author book project. Exceeding the word limit can mean your work goes unread or gets sent back to you for an edit, which is frustrating when you’ve poured your heart and soul into it. Here are my top 10 tips for reducing your word count without sacrificing the quality of your writing.
Use Singular Words Instead of Multiple
One of the simplest ways to cut down your word count is by using singular words instead of multiple words. For instance, replace phrases like “in order to” with “to,” “in addition to” with “also,” and “on the other hand” with “alternatively.” This technique not only shortens your text but also makes it more direct and powerful.
Example:
- Before: In order to achieve success, you need to work hard.
- After: To achieve success, you need to work hard.
Use Full Names Once and Shorten Thereafter
Introduce full names once and then use shortened versions or pronouns for the rest of the text. This is particularly useful in longer pieces where names are mentioned multiple times.
Example:
- First mention: Willow Smith presented her research findings.
- Thereafter: Willow emphasized the importance of data accuracy.
Remove the Word “The”
The word “the” is often unnecessary and can be removed without changing the meaning of a sentence. This small tweak can significantly reduce your word count over a long document.
Example:
- Before: The cream curtains lent the room a sense of luxury.
- After: Cream curtains lent the room a sense of luxury.
Add Some Authority to Your Verbs
Using stronger verbs can add authority and reduce word count. Instead of using a weak verb with an adverb or an additional descriptive phrase, opt for a more powerful verb.
Example:
- Before: “You will never achieve your dreams,” he said, his voice scathing and full of hate.
- After: “You will never achieve your dreams,” he spat.
Make It Plural
Whenever possible, make nouns plural. This allows you to use simpler forms and reduce the word count, especially in possessive cases.
Example:
- Before: A child’s toy was found in the park.
- After: Children’s toys were found in the park.
Lose the Conjunction!
Using the “-ing” form of verbs can eliminate the need for conjunctions, which often lead to longer, more complex sentences.
Example:
- Before: She ran as fast as she could and soon reached the finish line.
- After: Running as fast as she could, she reached the finish line.
Remove the Word “That”
The word “that” is frequently overused. Omitting it can streamline your sentences without altering their meaning.
Example:
- Before: Writing is one of the best healing tools that leaves us feeling connected and calm.
- After: Writing is one of the best healing tools leaving us feeling connected and calm.
Exact Times vs Approximate Times
Unless precision is crucial, using approximate times can reduce word count and make your text more fluid.
Example:
- Before: It was nearly five o’clock in the evening when she got home.
- After: It was nearly sunset when she got home.
Use Hyphens!
Hyphenated words count as one word, so use them whenever possible to save space.
Example:
- Before: The girl was good natured.
- After: The good-natured girl.
Get to the Point!
Being direct and using an active voice cuts down unnecessary words and keeps readers engaged. Avoid filler words such as “perhaps,” “really,” “possibly,” and “maybe.”
Example:
- Before: She really wanted that toy but perhaps it was not meant to be.
- After: She wanted that toy but it was not to be.
Reducing your word count can be a challenging but rewarding process. By applying these 10 tips, you can make your writing more concise, engaging, and powerful. Remember, every word counts, so make each one matter.
FAQs
Can these tips be applied to any type of writing?
Absolutely! These tips are versatile and can be applied to articles, manuscripts, essays, and even emails.
How do I know if a word is unnecessary?
Read your sentence without the word. If it still makes sense, the word is likely unnecessary.
Are there any tools to help with reducing word count?
Yes, tools like Grammarly and Hemingway Editor can help identify and remove unnecessary words.
How can I practice these tips?
Try editing a piece of your writing by applying each tip. Practice makes perfect!
What if I can’t reduce my word count enough?
Focus on the most important points and consider if any sections can be summarized or omitted without losing the essence.
