How to Make Your Writing Clearer
You’ve probably heard it before: clear and concise writing is better. And it’s true. When your writing is easy to read, people are more likely to stick with it, understand your message, and take action.
But how do you actually make your writing clear without spending hours editing? Let’s break it down.
Here are 3 quick tricks you can start using right away:
1. Start with WHO (Not What)
Instead of writing around the action, jump straight to who’s doing something.
Example:
From: The decision to hire the third applicant was made by the committee.
To: The committee decided to hire the third applicant.
See how much simpler that feels? When you start with who, your reader understands things faster — and the sentence naturally cuts the fluff.
2. Use Strong, Visual Verbs
We often fall into the habit of using vague verbs like is interested in or has been. These phrases are weak and take up space. Instead, pick a verb that paints a picture.
Example:
From: Your supervisor is interested in your feedback.
To: Your supervisor welcomes your feedback.
Or: Your supervisor requests your feedback.
These alternatives are not only shorter — they also give your sentence more energy and tone.
3. Avoid the “To Be” Trap
Words like is, are, was, and were sneak into our writing and slow things down. They don’t say much — and usually require more words to explain what you actually mean.
Example:
From: Erin is a writing teacher.
To: Erin teaches writing.
Another one:
From: You are interested in writing tips.
To: You want writing tips.
Better verbs = fewer words and clearer meaning.
Let’s Put It All Together
Here’s a long, clunky sentence:
This is to inform you that we are waiting on one more piece of documentation in order to complete your file.
Oof. That’s a lot.
Now let’s apply our 3 tricks:
We need one more document to complete your file.
Cleaner. Shorter. Easier to understand.
Why Clear Writing Wins
Clear writing builds trust. It makes you sound confident and thoughtful. And it saves your readers’ time — which they’ll appreciate more than you know.
So next time you’re editing your blog, newsletter, or even an Instagram caption, remember:
Start with who
Use strong verbs
Cut out “to be” verbs whenever you can
Your writing will feel lighter, and your message will shine through.
What to Try Next:
Rewrite your most recent social post or email using these three tricks
Ask a friend or colleague to read both versions and tell you which one’s clearer
Keep practicing — the more you do it, the easier it gets
Let me know in the comments how it goes! And if you want more easy writing tips, follow along — there’s more coming soon.
