Common mistakes to look out for in your work

In this module, we'll explore a range of common writing mistakes and how to avoid them. By addressing these issues, you can improve the quality of your writing and keep your readers engaged.

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Mistake 1: Writing lengthy sentences and long paragraphs

• Writing for the web requires shorter sentences and paragraphs
• Mobile readers dominate web traffic, and concise, scannable content is crucial to appeal to those readers
• Break text into manageable chunks for better readability

Mistake 2: Overusing connectives

• Use connectives sparingly; opt for commas or direct transitions when possible
• Words like "because," "furthermore," "that," and "besides" can add unnecessary word count

Mistake 3: Improper image sourcing

• Always credit images appropriately, following website guidelines.
• Consider writing "source" or a brief explanation below images with hyperlinks.
• Avoid using stock images when possible.

Mistake 4: Not following the KISS Principle (Keep It Simple, Stupid)

• Simplify your writing; avoid complex language and unnecessary jargon
• Prioritize clarity and readability to prevent readers from stumbling over words

Mistake 5: Not staying on topic

• Ensure that your body content aligns with your headings
• Stay relevant to the heading above. If it's not relevant, create a new heading

Mistake 6: Forgetting to use lists when possible

• Convert content lists into bulleted or numbered lists for scannability
• Lists break up text and info easier to digest

Mistake 7: Wrong formatting

• Follow specific formatting guidelines based on your target audience or brand
• Consistency in bold, italics, heading structure, and case is essential
• Maintain uniformity in numbered or bulleted lists, indentations, and quotes

Mistake 8: Lacking consistency in your introduction and conclusion

• Ensure that your conclusion aligns with the promises made in the introduction
• Double-check that your intro and outro complement each other in tone and content

Mistake 9: Not delivering what the reader wants

• Prioritize reader needs over SEO obligations
• Provide valuable content upfront to avoid frustrating readers

Mistake 10: Writing for robots, not humans

• Focus on writing for human readers first
• Prioritize clarity and engagement, and then optimize for search engines
• There's no use in a piece that's hyper-optimized, if once the reader clicks into doesn't get value, personality, or clarity. Clicking away will signal the search engine that the content is not good

Mistake 11: Grammar inconsistency

• Be mindful of grammar rules and adhere to language standards for your market
• Play with grammar creatively but maintain consistency throughout your work—especially usefull to battle against AI

Mistake 12: Too much fluff and repetition

• Eliminate unnecessary content and repetition
• Every word should bring value and progression to your piece
• Words that don't add value to the piece = fluff

Mistake 13: Missing double-spacing

• Be vigilant for unintentional double spaces, which can occur after implementing suggestions
• Some US publishers may require double spacing after full stops, but it's old school originating from typewriter days

Mistake 14: Mixing up verb tenses and person

• Maintain consistency in verb tense (past, present, or future) and person (1st, 2nd, or 3rd)
• Choose a verb tense that keeps your writing engaging and active

Mistake 15: Not using actionable headings

• Ensure that headings guide readers to take action or engage with your content
• Avoid vague or uninformative headings

Mistake 16: Not backing up statements with research

• Support your claims with relevant, recent research—no more than 2-3 years old
• Link to reputable sources to reinforce your points, and ensure it's the original source

Final tip: Learn to kill those darlings

We're all attached to what we write, one way or another. However, to be a great editor of your own work you need to learn to kill those darlings.

Get rid of the fluff, and get rid of that sentence you think sounds nice but adds no direct value to the reader. Remember, writing is not about you, it's about the reader.

Use the provided checklist as a resource to enhance the quality of your writing. Apply these lessons in your future work, and see how they elevate the quality of your final drafts.

Stay tuned for the final lesson!

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