Mastering the Art of Brevity: 10 Tips for Engaging Content
By: Jon Dwoskin
In today’s fast-paced digital era, attention spans are dwindling. The plethora of information available means that readers often skim content, making brevity in writing more important than ever. Whether it’s a blog, an email, or a text message, being concise and clear can help ensure your message not only reaches your audience but also resonates with them. Here are ten ways to infuse your writing with the power of brevity.
• Start with a Strong Opening: Capture your reader’s attention from the get-go. A powerful, relevant opening sets the tone and encourages the reader to continue.
• Trim the Fat: Eliminate unnecessary words. Instead of writing “in order to”, just use “to”. Rather than saying “at this point in time”, simply say “now”. Keep your sentences lean.
• Avoid Jargon: Technical terms, industry jargon, or big words can alienate readers. Unless your audience is specific and understands these terms, it’s best to write in plain English.
• Use Active Voice: Passive voice can make sentences longer and harder to understand. “The blog was read by many” is passive and wordy. “Many read the blog” is active and concise.
• Limit Adverbs: While sometimes useful, adverbs often clutter your writing. Instead of “ran quickly”, consider “sprinted”. Look for stronger verbs to convey your message.
• Stay Focused: Stick to one idea per paragraph. If you’re introducing a new idea, start a new paragraph. This makes it easier for readers to follow and grasp your main points.
• Use Lists and Bullet Points: For blogs and emails, lists (like this one!) or bullet points break down information into digestible chunks, allowing readers to scan and absorb key details.
• Prioritize Information: Begin with the most crucial information or the main takeaway. This is known as the inverted pyramid style, which ensures that even if a reader skims, they’ll capture the essence of your message.
• Revise and Edit: Once you’ve drafted your content, go back and review it. Often, you’ll find ways to make your points more succinctly upon a second or third read.
• Solicit Feedback: Sometimes, you’re too close to your writing to see verbosity. Having a friend or colleague review your content can offer fresh insights into where you can be more concise.
In conclusion, brevity isn’t about reducing the length of your content arbitrarily. It’s about refining your message to ensure clarity and impact. By following these tips, you can engage your readers more effectively, ensuring your words resonate and inspire action.
Think BIG!
Jon Dwoskin
Business, Sales & Productivity Coach
248.535.7796 jon@jondwoskin.com
