Sentences that start with “It was” and “There were” can weaken writing by adding clutter and obscuring focus. Replacing them with stronger, direct language deepens your writing and draws your reader in.
Tag Archives: writing
How many drafts do you have?
Kia ora, How many travel or adventure drafts do you have sitting unfinished? Those drafts could be blog posts or articles, or full manuscripts. Reply and let me know your number. I want to know, and I’m not judging. Cheers, Deborah P.S. Don’t like your number? Want help with those drafts? I can help. ReplyContinue reading “How many drafts do you have?”
Metaphorical pickles
Kia ora, A pickle some travel and adventure writers get into is writing all about themselves. It’s easy to do because that’s the natural angle to take when you’re writing about your trip. Naturally, when you write about where you went, what you did, and how you got yourself out of different pickles, you writeContinue reading “Metaphorical pickles”
Being intentional with your words
Kia ora, I had a great weekend away at Arrowtown, just outside of Queenstown. A group of us heaved ourselves around the Sawpit Gully track. Steep on the way up, steep on the way down! The crisp, blue skies and autumn colours were just gorgeous. In last week’s email I talked about my dislike ofContinue reading “Being intentional with your words”
Why “thing” weakens your writing (and how to fix it)
Small words can have a big impact on your story, and not always for the right reasons. One of those small words is “things”.
Tell me your opinion on this
Kia ora, I’m heading away this weekend, so I’m getting my gear together. Snacks are a key part of the day walk and tramping experience. My go-tos: One Square Meal bars (apricot or cranberry) and Whittaker’s Peanut Slabs. But I’ve got to tell you: I can’t do scroggin. Even if I lace it with M&Ms.Continue reading “Tell me your opinion on this”
I’m so inspired
Kia ora, A few weeks ago I sent an edit back to a new writer. I always find this to be a nail-biting experience. Will they like my edits? Will they find my suggestions helpful? Have I caught everything I can? My main goal is always to help writers bring out the best in theirContinue reading “I’m so inspired”
Why “decide” weakens your writing (and how to fix it)
Is “decide” weakening your writing? This small word can slow pacing, strip emotional depth, and trap you in telling rather than showing. My latest blog post shows how focusing on actions, rather than decisions, creates more engaging scenes.
Celebrating writing wins
Last week I wrapped up a copyedit for a local writer. This was our fourth time working together. His first book all those years ago was great – strong opening chapter, well paced narrative, realistic characterisation. Even with that solid foundation, I made a lot of edits. He’d done all that solid work, so IContinue reading “Celebrating writing wins”
Cosy season & a question for you
Kia ora, I’ve had a busy week so far. Here’s a round up: Okay, over to you. What’s one thing you’re excited about as the seasons change? Reply and let me know! Until next time, stay warm (or cool, if you’re in the northern hemisphere). Deborah PS: Last week I finished reading What Happens ifContinue reading “Cosy season & a question for you”
Deborah Shaw Adventure Editing 