In this week’s podcast (3:25) I share insight from a speaker who encouraged me to eliminate filler words from formal talks I give as well as from everyday conversation. I’m encouraging writers to do the same with their written work: search and destroy the filler words that distract from the meat of the message.
Examples of filler words that show up in our speaking:
- um and uh
- like
- you know
- so…
Examples of filler words in our writing:
- but
- and
- so
- and so
- very
- really
- that
In the podcast, I mention the “search” function in Word or Google docs, which is more accurately the “find” feature. Learn more about how this works in Word and Google docs.
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On Being a Writer
“This brand-new book is a must-have for career writers, whether seasoned or just starting out.”
— from “10 Great Books for a Writer’s Wish List” on Huffington Post
“A genial marriage of practice and theory. For writers new and seasoned. This book is a winner.”
—Philip Gulley, author of Front Porch Tales
My mom got me a copy of your book for Christmas!! Apparently, she is friends with Charity Craig so went to one of your book signings in December! I’m enjoying it very much. Taking it slowly so I can try to do one of the exercises at the end of the chapters….
Really? I won’t ask her name publicly, but I’m thinking I know your mom from meeting her at the book signing. How delightful! We are only one step removed–and now, with you looking through the book, we’re meeting up on those pages. 🙂
Thank you for letting me know. I’m tickled to hear this connection!