As writers, sometimes we have a lot to say—so much that it overflows onto the page in a flurry of thoughts, stories, and ideas. While passion is powerful, knowing how to condense your content is just as important as creating it. Especially when writing blogs, book chapters, or speeches, clarity and brevity are your best friends.

“Every sentence should serve your purpose—no more, no less.”

– Kennisha Griffin, Put Your Pen to Paper

1. Start With Your Core Message

Before you write (or revise), ask yourself:

What do I really want to say?

Jot down your main point in a single sentence. Let everything else support or lead back to that message.

2. Trim the Excess

Look for:

• Repetitions
• Tangents
• Filler phrases

If a paragraph doesn’t move the story or message forward, it might need to go—or at least be reworked.

3. Combine Ideas

If two sentences say similar things, merge them.

If an anecdote can be summarized in one strong line, do it.

4. Break It Into Smaller Pieces

Have a lot to say?

Consider breaking your content into a series. This lets each idea breathe while keeping readers engaged over time.

5. Read It Out Loud

When you read aloud, you naturally hear what’s bulky or unnecessary.

Trust your ear—if it sounds too long, it probably is.

6. Get Feedback

You’re too close to your writing to see everything clearly.

Let a trusted editor or writer give it a second look.

When It’s Hard to Cut Your Words

Let’s be honest: editing your own work can feel like cutting off a piece of your heart. Every word had meaning when you wrote it. But remember:

“You don’t have to say everything in one sitting. Your story has layers—let each one unfold at the right time.”

– Kennisha Griffin, Put Your Pen to Paper

Your message might be meant to unfold over time. You don’t need paragraphs to prove your passion—just one clear idea that hits exactly where it should.

Tools to Help You Condense

• Highlighters: Mark your strongest lines. Anything unmarked? Reconsider.
• Word Count Goals: Set a limit. Trim with purpose.
• Voice Notes: Explain your message aloud in 60 seconds. You’ll naturally simplify.

Remember Why You’re Writing

It’s not about saying everything.

It’s about saying what matters.

Your readers don’t need it all. They need what sticks. What speaks. What serves them right now.

When you write with precision, you don’t lose your voice.

You sharpen it. You find it. You grow into the kind of writer who knows when to pour out—and when to pare down.

Your Call to Action

Look at your most recent piece of writing.

Cut 20% of it.

Then read it again.

See what’s left.

See how strong it still is—maybe even stronger.

Give yourself a quiet nod. You’ve taken a powerful step toward becoming a more intentional writer.

You don’t have to say it all at once.

You just have to say it well.