A "writing rule" that shocked me when I first started studying how to write copy was "eliminate your adverbs...and many of your adjectives." Then I read Stephen King's book on writing and he said the same thing. What gives with that? Don't adverbs and adjectives add color and interest to the sentence?

Nope. It turns out that adverbs (and many adjectives) are just a lazy writers way to paint a picture. Instead, the goal is to replace common, mundane verbs with verbs that paint pictures.

For instance: Instead of saying "majestic mountains" you can say "Mountains that reach 3 miles into the sky." Instead of "The water ran noisly over the falls" you could say the water "gushed" or "roared." Instead of "walked shakily" you could say "toddled" or "stumbled." Instead of "drove quickly" say "sped" or "roared" or even "screeched."

The first step toward improving whatever you've written is editing. And

editing should include highlighting every adverb. Then study each one and find a way to replace each tired "verb/adverb" with a powerful verb. You'll be amazed at the new power and vibrancy in your copy.

Even if you're writing a letter to friend, try this trick to spice up your words and paint pictures your reader can see and feel. And have fun! It is a great exercise in stretching your mind.

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