✂️
Concise Editing
The Art of Revision — Cutting Down
The first draft is for pouring out thoughts, revision is for polishing for the reader. Most beginners skip revision or only add. Pros cut. Repeatedly asking "Does the meaning hold without this word?" sharpens writing.
Step-by-Step
1
Wait at least 1 hour after completing the first draft
2
Try deleting all intensifier adverbs like "very", "really"
3
Find redundant expressions and consolidate
4
Aim to cut 20-30% from the first draft
Pros
- ✓ Dramatically increased density and impact
- ✓ Reduced reading time for readers
Cons
- ✗ Sometimes good sentences must be cut ("Kill your darlings")
Use Cases
All types of writing (revision is universal)