Nonfiction writers have a unique challenge. They must get their facts right and make them interesting to readers. Meeting this challenge requires writers to look for every opportunity to trim down their words. A two-word phrase every nonfiction writer should get rid of is I think.
Why You Should Remove “I Think” from Your Writing
Why doesn’t I think belong in your book? For one simple reason:
You wrote the book. Your readers know they’re reading your thoughts. In fact, the only words inside your book that aren’t your original thoughts are quotes from other people and their books. Because your book is nonfiction, you cite those other sources. At least you should.
How to Find and Remove This Unneeded Phrase
You may not realize how often you write I think. The good news is that you can find out very quickly.
No matter what writing program you use, that program allows you to run a search for any word or phrase you want.
Search for I think. This will show you how often you use the phrase.
While it’s okay to use the phrase a few times, it’s easy to overdo it. So be careful! To stay on the safe side, avoid the risk altogether and get rid of every instance of I think.
As you get rid of those two words, do the same with I feel and similar phrases.
Chop these words out, and your writing will be tighter, your book will read faster, and your readers will stay engaged to the final page.
Getting Your Nonfiction Book to the Finish Line
Have a nonfiction book that’s ready to be seen by the masses? Argyle Fox Publishing can help you get to the finish line. We’ll even help you cut out I think and I feel. Submit your manuscript today to take the first step toward publication.