Precise Language - Conciseness
Wordy Constructions with imprecise subjects and
verbs
Tips: The Basic ENGLISH SENTENCE is structured this way: S+
V+ O
Subjects
and Verbs must be explicit; often when "there is" or "there are"
are used, the
real verb (the precise one) is hidden.
Rule: Limit your use of "there is " or "there
are" only when the sole meaning you want to convey
is THAT SOMETHING EXISTS. Otherwise, restructure the sentence using the real
verb.
a. The number of students enrolled in our training sessions has
decreased.
b. Based on recent research, I recommend our new CAD course.
c. In-store demonstrations appear to have dramatically increased
business.
Hidden Verbs
Reduction of the size of the tear-gas generator has
already been completed.
(the verb is hidden, creating confusion and wordiness - note the two prepositions)
Language Precision
Rule: When
writing a business or technical document, avoid vague words
DO NOT USE
abstract qualifiers such as:
a
while, a lot, most, usually, frequently, often, fewer, less, for a long time,
periodically, sometimes; very, extremely, significant, important, extensive, interesting.
Use numbers, dates,
dollar amounts or other specific details instead.
a. The results will be available by April 12, 2000.