Are You A Redundant Writer?

Redundancy: a : superfluous repetition : prolixity b : an act or instance of needless repetition the part of a message that can be eliminated without loss of essential information --- Merriam-Webster Dictionary

When I started writing, one of my biggest writing mistakes was redundancy. Examples of redundant phrases I’ve been guilty of using were: each and every, could possibly, all throughout, first of all, first started, and more. Today, I can say that I am more aware of it and I try to avoid redundancies as much as I can.

Here are other examples of redundant phrases which are common in marketing copies, advertisements and articles online. Note that the texts in Italic simply repeat the meaning of its paired word and therefore, can be omitted.

basic fundamentals confused state actual fact bouquet of flowers advance preview brief moment current trend advance reservations brief summary depreciate in value add up cancel out added bonus circle around disappear from sight close proximity drop down ask the question combine together assemble together autobiography of his/her life completely surrounded emergency situation ATM machine (Automated Teller Machine) end result PIN number (Personal Identification Number) estimated at about SEO optimization (Search Engine Optimization) HTML language (Hyper Text Markup Language) final completion BASIC code (Beginner’s All-Purpose Instruction Code) LCD display (Liquid Crystal Display) free gift repeat again rectangular in shape past (or prior, previous) experience

Getting Over Redundancies Redundancies are not corrected by the Microsoft Word Checker but you can avoid redundant writing! Consider the following tips:

Be aware. It may not be that easy at first especially if you were used to using expressions like absolutely necessary, and also, empty space, exact same and other cliches. By familiarizing yourself, you can spot redundancies when you proofread.

Watch out the intensifiers! A redundant phrase is often accompanied by an intensifier such as extremely, very, absolutely, quite, fairly, definitely, etc. Look out for these words in your article. Did you use it on purpose? Does it strengthen the word it follows? Or is it unnecessary?

Sometimes, an intensifier can be used for emphasis but if your sentences contain too many intensifiers, then you should omit words that do not add much value to a statement.

Starting a sentence with a wordy phrase. Introductory phrases like "As a matter of fact", "In the case of", etc. should be used sparingly. If you can say something directly without using an introductory, better.

Avoid repeating the same words in one sentence. Unless on purpose, avoid using the same words over and over in your article. Use a thesaurus to find appropriate synonyms.

Do not add unnecessary words just to meet the minimum word count. Remember that wordiness does not win an audience. Those extra words will only increase word count, not the value of the piece. If a word or phrase does not add meaning or depth to your writing, delete it. And who wants to read a very long article filled with repetitions anyway?

Do you have other ideas on how redundant writing can be avoided?

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Thanks a lot, Rachel:) Photo sources:

1. yellow pencils in a row

2. redundant clock

3. bored cat

Yes, I Am An Internet Writer!

No, I'm not an expert in writing and I do not have a bachelor's degree in English but I do write for a living. I have been a freelance writer for almost three years now and everything I know about it, I learned through experience and research.

Is it easy to be a writer for the internet? Yes, writing can be a very easy and enjoyable profession if your heart is in it. If you're determined to learn, there's no reason why shouldn't achieve a goal, whatever that maybe.

If you want to be a successful online writer, you can certainly develop your writing skills through practice, self-study and observation.

When I started writing for the web, I have not the slightest idea how it works. I've always loved writing short stories and poetry but I wasn't ready to write about business, credit cards and other finance-related topics. What I do know is that I needed a home based job and because the opportunity was there, I went for it.

My First Online Writing Job

I found an opening for the position of an online writer at Bestjobs.ph. The job description calls for good writing skills, a reliable computer and an internet connection so I submitted my resume along with sample written works and waited.

The next day, I was interviewed online (via Yahoo messenger) by a woman- who will turn out to be my boss until this day. She was warm and friendly and is willing to give me the chance to be part of her team, even though who she needs is someone with a background in finance.

Mind you, the sample writings I sent her were articles about dogs because I am dog lover. On my first day, I was introduced to everyone on her team (via YM conference) and was assigned to write 3 articles about credit cards. To think that I don't even own a credit card. I did not know anything about credit cards and I didn't understand banking terminologies.

I had spent the whole 8-hour night shift reading about credit cards online and writing the articles at the same time. (APR, debit, balance transfer, duhhh!) To cut it short, I survived that first day and thankfully, the articles I submitted met the boss's expectations. Except for a couple of corrections here and there, the articles turned out to be fine.

Improving My Writing Skills

When I read my previous articles and compare them with my recent writings, I can see the difference. Somehow, I have improved my skills by writing every day, by reading and studying the works of other writers, by proofreading my own work, and by continuously learning.

I'm starting this blog to share my discoveries  as I strive to further improve my knowledge and skills in writing. I will be sharing some online writing tools that have made my job easier. And because writing for the internet and online business is so inter-connected, I will also be posting articles about internet marketing and SEO as well.