When you start writing a new history blog post please don’t even consider filler words. Give yourself the freedom to write whether it’s spectacular or utter rubbish. It’s the first draft – no-one’s going to see it unless you want them to.
First drafts are for telling the critical editing side of your brain to shut up so your creative side can come up with the magic. Get your ideas out of your head and onto paper as although cliche, you can’t edit a blank page.
When it comes to blogging, we’re all capable of writing five words when two will do. Don’t get disheartened if your draft is littered with filler words. How we write is often how we speak so we automatically start building in a few vocal bridges. We also start overusing words and adding filler words without even realising it. I’m terrible for using connecting words like ‘So’ and ‘Basically.’
What are filler words?
There are common ones but they can be any word which stops you being concise.
A filler word hinders sharp, effective naturally flowing writing. They create waffle and drift for your reader. Simple tweaks and cuts can give your writing authority, help get the message across and give you confidence.
If you struggle with writing or want to improve (as we all should endeavour to do) there are tools to help. I use, love and recommend Grammarly. It doesn’t just catch typos. It’s a proofreading software helping tone, grammar and constructing paragraphs.
In full disclosure, this post contains affiliate links. I only ever recommend products I use myself or believe will be of value. For more view my policy page.
Click here if you want to see how Grammarly can assist your writing for free.
Related Link: Discover the best blogging tools for you
The 27 words you probably won’t miss.
- so
- like
- but
- perhaps
- maybe
- sort of
- totally
- kind of
- simply
- literally
- due to the fact that
- very
- quite
- just
- in order to
- a little
- absolutely
- actually
- that
- of
- some
- and then
- basically
- now
- only
- almost
- slightly
As well as being mindful of filler words in your next post, trawl through the archive and take a look at your most popular posts. Can you tidy them a bit and cut those filler words?
I’d also love to know if there are any filler words you particularly struggle with and I can add them to the list.
