Less is More
Good writing is clear. If a word, a phrase, or a sentence does not have a purpose, take it out. Make each word count. A simple exercise can help you do this: Once you are done with a draft,
reduce the word count by 30% without changing the content or meaning.
Some examples of unnecessary words that clutter from page 39 of Strunk, White & Kalman (2000). Elements of Style (4th ed.). N.Y: Penguin (This, by the way, is how to properly reference a certain edition according to APA style guidelines.)
* the question as to whether- whether (or the question whether)
* that story is a strange one- that story is strange
* he is a man who- he
* used for fuel purposes-used for fuel
* the reason why is that- the reason why
