Every writer eventually develops her own unique style of writing. As you struggle to create your own voice, while focusing on the required standards, you may want to consider the following tips for improving your style and establishing a professional formula for success.

1. Edit your work continuously to eliminate all those extra words. One of the most common mistakes a writer makes is to use too many adverbs and adjectives. You should try to eliminate unnecessary content to keep your crisp and concise. Less is more.

   Example: Does the meaning change if you cut -

   • "past history" to "history"

   • "really unusual" to "unusual"

   • "very impressive" to "impressive"

   • "accurate facts" to "facts"

   • "true reality" to "reality"

   Choose your descriptive words carefully and utilize them in sentences where they will be most effective.

2. Select uncomplicated language to say what you mean as simply as possible. Writers frequently have a more extensive vocabulary than the average reader does. You will not impress people by using long, uncommon words that they do not understand.

   Example: Does the general public know the definition of the first or second word below?
   

   • exigency or emergency

   • prognosticate or predict

   • contumacious or contrary

   • rancorous or resentful

   • facetious or fun

   Most readers will give up on your writing before they will pick up a dictionary to figure out what you are trying to say.

3. Construct short sentences. Lengthy sentences are usually more difficult for people to read and equally challenging to write. If you find yourself wondering where to place the commas appropriately or whether to use a colon or semi-colon in your sentence, it is probably too long. Using short sentences to express yourself can eliminate common writing problems, like incorrect subject/modifier agreement or improper parallel construction. Your work will be more readable if you write with a balanced combination of short and long sentences.

4. Produce original work that shows your individual voice. Avoid clich