Who Else Wants to Write Like Hemingway?
Photo courtesy of Death to the Stock Photo
Every morning, I dive into my journal to better understand my thoughts and feelings. But when I write for my blog, I want to create content that is helpful to others. So helpful, that they can't wait to spread the word. The key to shareable content is simplicity (click to tweet). And no one knew this better than Ernest Hemingway.
If you want your message to reach more people, simplify your writing.
More words do not create a more meaningful message. For example, take a look at the six-word story. I've used it as an opening activity in many training classes and group meetings. Have you written one before? You use exactly six words to construct a meaningful story or memoir. It's believed that Hemingway wrote the saddest, shortest story ever written.
"For sale: baby shoes, never worn." - Ernest Hemingway
It's easy to simplify your writing with Hemingway Editor.
When I found out about a editing tool called the Hemingway Editor, I couldn't wait to give it a try.
Hemingway Editor, a free online tool, provides specific feedback on simplify your writing. The tool provides guidance on readability, word count, read time, passive voice, and more.
Curious, I used it for the first time today to see how my writing would stack up. Here’s what happened.
- I opened the Hemingway Editor using the new “beta” version.
- I copied and pasted the text from an older blog into the content block.
- I clicked the “Edit” button to see my statistics (see image below).
- In minutes, I updated my writing based on these suggestions. Click here to see the updated post.
What editing tools do you use?
Do you have a favorite editing tool or tip that you’d like to share? I hope you’ll tell me about it by posting a comment below. Or if you're feeling creative, post your own six-word story!
A screenshot of my blog in the Hemingway Editor.