Five Hacks to Cut Words from Briefs

Use these 5 hacks to make your brief fit the page limit—without cutting substance.

🔷 1: Convert sentences to active voice.

“The boy hit the ball.” (Active)

—is shorter than—

“The ball was hit by the boy.” (Passive)

🔷 2: Avoid starting sentences with “It is,” or “There are.”

“There are three factors that courts consider. They are: _”

—is longer than—

“Three factors the court considers are __”

🔷 3: Convert noun clauses into single verbs.

make arrangement for –> arrange

provide a description of –> describe

take the deposition of —> depose

🔷 4: Convert “of the” & “by the” clauses into shorter, possessive forms.

the reasoning of the court –> the court’s reasoning

the bill by the Senate —> the Senate’s bill (or the Senate bill)

🔷 5: Remove adverbs.

Worst offenders = very, clearly, and plainly

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⭐️ BONUS: All the above hacks will also make your writing better!

🗳️ What would you add?

Fondly,
💌 Amanda

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