Writing tips focus on small rules and habits that make a big difference in clarity and effectiveness. From grammar and sentence structure to word choice and punctuation, the tips below highlight common mistakes and show how to write more clearly and confidently.
Writing Tips
Grammar & Sentence Structure
- Each pronoun should agree with its antecedent.
- Each sentence should express a clear idea.
- A writer should avoid using sexist pronouns in writing.
- Verbs must agree with their subjects.
- Do not confuse who and whom.
- Avoid using double negatives.
- Prepositions should not be placed at the end of sentences in formal writing.
- When writing, participles should not be dangled.
- Avoid using transitive verbs without objects.
- Join clauses well, as conjunctions should.
- Avoid using the passive voice when clarity suffers.
- A writer must not shift point of view unnecessarily.
- Eliminate unnecessary one-word sentences.
Word Choice & Style
- Be careful never, under any circumstances, to split infinitives.
- Use adverbs carefully and only when they add meaning.
- Write as often as you can.
- Do not turn nouns into verbs unnecessarily.
- Avoid annoying, affected, and awkward alliteration.
- Never use unnecessary repetition.
- Avoid trendy expressions that may sound unclear or informal.
- Avoid rhetorical questions when they add no value.
- Foreign words and phrases are often inappropriate.
- Understatement can be effective when used correctly.
- Avoid archaic expressions.
- Use concrete rather than vague language.
- Always choose the correct idiom.
Punctuation & Mechanics
- In letters, themes, reports, and ads, use commas to separate items in a series.
- Do not use commas that are not necessary.
- Avoid overusing quotation marks.
- Parenthetical remarks, even when relevant, are often unnecessary.
- Avoid overusing contractions in formal writing.
- Avoid run-on sentences because they are hard to read.
- Do not forget to use end punctuation.
- It is important to use apostrophes in the right places.
- Do not abbreviate unless it is appropriate.
- Do not overuse exclamation marks.
- Avoid misspellings.
- Check to see if you left any words out.
- Do not use double negatives to create a positive meaning without good reason.
How to Write Better | Infographic
Last Updated on January 23, 2026
