I always have to make sure I search my manuscripts for the word was. I don’t think that it has to be taken out in every situation, but I do use it way too often. From today’s editing:
“Hey!” I heard a familiar voice exclaim as the science teacher, Mr. Smith, was giving me my textbook. (Changed to “handed me my textbook.”)
I was at the sink washing my hands when a girl stepped out of one of the stalls. (Changed to “I stood at the sink…”)
I was uncertain if I should interrupt, but Willow gestured toward the empty chair next to her when she saw me approach. (Changed to “I hesitated, not wanting to interrupt…”)
Behind them, a crowd was forming as other students wanted to get a look at Emma Anders too. (Changed to “a crowd formed…”)
Her face was shining and her blue eyes sparkled with excitement. (Changed to “Her face shone…”)
“I just realized I don’t have a locker yet,” I told them as I looked at the way my backpack was hanging nearly to the floor with the weight of the books inside it. (Changed “was hanging” to “hung.”)
Those are only a few examples from within a five page range. I also have a problem with the word “just.” I stick it everywhere. “I was just saying…” “I just wanted to…” “I just sat down…” I let myself put all the justs I want while writing the first draft, then I do a search and take at least 90% of them out.
I’m now on my fourth time through this particular manuscript. I can’t believe all these passive phrases still slipped by me in previous edits.
Yes…I feel your pain.
Was Just Reading…
LOL…I have a ‘just’ problem, too! Good idea to edit specifically for these types of words…I have a list of them.
Thanks for the reminder!
One of the girls in my crit group is nicknamed the wasinator. She spots those was words and zaps them like nobody’s buisness.
LOL- I am a major WAS person and JUST too.
Janet G
My problem is the word that. I have to do an entire editing pass devoted to that word alone!
“I have to do an entire editing pass devoted to that word alone!”
Wow, talk about an inflated sentence! I think I need to quit for the day. 🙂
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