Vague wording
Vague Veronica
“Says something about some things. Probably.”
What's the problem?
Readers sometimes need more detail than words such as ‘things,’ ‘good,’ or ‘some issues’ provide. Use names, actions, examples, or numbers when they help readers understand your point. General wording can be appropriate when the context is clear. Never invent details just to sound specific.
Context: The policy extended library hours until 2 a.m. during finals week.
- ✗ Gremlin-infested
- The new policy changed some things about the library.
- ✓ Fixed
- The new policy extended library hours until 2 a.m. during finals week.
- Why it works
- The revision uses the supplied facts to show exactly what changed and when.