The Elements of Style

About ten years ago, I entered a writing contest sponsored by SouthWest Writers. One of the options was to enter and get a critique. Critiques help me to better see my own work as others see it.

The reviewer added a piece of advice that he had found particularly useful: every year re-read Strunk and White's The Elements of Style.

I have tried to do that. This year I am focusing on five of the Elementary Principles of Composition. For examples, see the book. 

#14 Use the active voice.

 

#15 Put statements in positive form.

 

#16 Use definite, specific, concrete language.

 

#17 Omit useless words.

 

#20  Keep related words together.