About this quote

People often layer their claims with flourish so the idea sounds stronger than it is. Stripping away the flashy words forces you to test whether the core point actually holds up. Try editing a sentence or an argument by removing adjectives and then judge what's left. You may find uncomfortable gaps, but you'll also write and decide with more honesty and precision.

When to use it

• At work, before I send the project summary, I'm going to delete the adjectives and see if the numbers still make the case.
• While editing my college essay tonight, I'll delete the adjectives and check whether my argument still stands.
• Talking to my partner about chores, I'll drop the adjectives and say exactly what the problem is.
• When reviewing investment pitches, I delete the adjectives to separate hype from real facts.