A Simple Editing Trick

By Tim Sardano

I always hate what I originally write. Article. Blog. Resume....Hate them. My first drafts never end up how I originally planned, but I guess that's why they're called first drafts.

I learned an editing trick a long time ago that I still use today: cut out every third word. It's not magic so don't leave your piece with all those holes. Remove every third word and re-read your draft. You may find removing that word works or that adding something else sounds a little better.

Here's an example from my opening paragraph:

"I always what I write. Article. Resume....Hate . My first never end how I planned, but guess that's they're called drafts."

I've cut out every third word, re-read what I wrote, and this is what I came up with:

"I've never been satisfied with my writing. Articles, blogs and resumes never come out how I envisioned on the first go-around."

I was taught a long time ago the purpose of your opening line in writing is to entice the reader to read the next line. The first line I originally wrote is a turn off (thanks for sticking around for the rest). I come across as arrogant, cliche and someone who is fishing for a compliment. By reworking the opening I've changed the tone of the whole piece from aggressive to empathic.

The next time you're editing your work, or another's, try this out. You don't have to cut every third word, but try not to do more than every fifth. I've found this helpful in everything from articles to proposals to resumes and cover letters to e-mails.