Mrs.

Overly
Basic Writing Rules for Revision

1. Vary every sentences beginning with a different word within the same paragraph.

2. Word Choice and diction matter a great deal:

a. Never use the word things or stuff
b. Do not use indirect pronouns like them, these, those, that
Those are not the ones I wanted.
c. Do not use get/got when there are far better active verbs
I received my paycheck today.
d. Do not use good/bad and other overused adjectives
I found the performance brilliant.
e. Do not use any short cuts like ‘etc’.
f. Do not use exclamation points nor dashes
g. Dependent clauses depend on commas
If you start a sentence with a phrase, you will need a comma.
h. Do not use you, I, or me in formal writing
i. No contractions in formal writing
j. Do not end sentence with linking verbs or prepositions

3. Keep a very careful eye out for repetition. Make sure that you are moving forward
with your ideas and not just retelling something you have already stated in
another way.

4. Paragraphs are very important in demonstrating your control over your writing.
When separating paragraphs, look for logical break areas. For example:
a. Shifts in time
b. What came next
c. A scene change
d. A change of purpose (a different point)

5. Most importantly, make sure that your paper has a clear beginning, middle, and
end.