Why you need to stop over explaining
Gary Bloomer | SHAKING THE TREE #159
If you repeat yourself in your writing you’re over explaining things.
While you probably mean well, you’re diluting the impact of your writing and you’re insulting the reader's intelligence.
Been there. Done that.
Over explaining adds needless detail.
While it's important to be clear and concise, your readers are not idiots.
By assuming your readers are incapable of understanding complex ideas without extensive hand-holding, you risk alienating them.
When every point is belabored, your impact diminishes. The reader's attention span is finite, and excessive explanation can lead to information overload.
Overly detailed explanations disrupt your narrative and hinder engagement.
Here’s how to avoid over explaining:
Trust your readers: your audience is intelligent and capable,
Show, don't tell: use vivid descriptions and imagery that conveys information, rather than simply stating it.
Edit ruthlessly: cut text that doesn’t add value.
Add impact: by using simple, powerful verbs and active voice.
Seek feedback: ask readers or editors to identify areas that over explain.
By striking a balance between clarity and brevity, you produce more engaging and effective work.
Let's trust our readers and allow them the space to think for themselves.
As always, thanks for reading.
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P.S. Next time on Shaking the Tree … Why you need to stop over complicating things.