Avoiding Filter Words in Writing
Filter words can weaken your writing by distancing readers from the action and characters. These unnecessary words filter the scene through a character, creating a barrier between the reader and the story. By eliminating filter words, you can create a more immersive experience for your audience.Get more news about Exit Filter,you can vist our website!
What Are Filter Words?
Filter words are extra words, often placed at the beginning of a sentence, that filter the scene through a character. For example:
Filtered sentence: “Sam heard the rumble of thunder in the distance.”
Improved version: “Thunder rumbled in the distance.”
In the improved version, we’ve removed the filter word (“heard”) and allowed readers to experience the thunder directly. This change makes the writing stronger and more engaging.
Examples of Filter Words
Here are some common filter words to watch out for:
Heard/See/Saw: Instead of saying “She heard footsteps,” write “Footsteps echoed.”
Realized/Knew: Replace with direct statements. For instance, “He realized he was lost” becomes “He was lost.”
Felt: Instead of “She felt the cold wind,” write “The cold wind swept over her.”
Applying the Changes
Let’s revisit an example:
Filtered: “John heard the door click and looked up from his paperwork as his assistant escorted the client in.”
Improved: “The door clicked, and John looked up from his paperwork as his assistant escorted the client in.”
By cutting filter words, we maintain the scene while making it more immediate and engaging.
Remember, removing filter words enhances your writing, drawing readers deeper into your narrative. So, next time you revise, keep an eye out for these subtle barriers and create a more immersive experience for your audience.
