 using first person pronouns
(I, me, my)
 using second person pronouns
(you, your)
 shifting verb tenses
 using “is when”/ “was when”
 using vague pronouns (this, it, he)
 using clichés
 using “a lot”
 using contractions
 omit the “I think: or “in my opinion”
EX: I think Gene ultimately finds his own separate peace.
 use “one” , “the reader” or “people”
EX: Through Gene’s actions, the reader can see his growth.
 use present tense consistently for textual references and past tense for historical references
EX: Leper leaves the army because he is not ready for that outside world.

Use the following construction: One example of Gene’s salient qualities is his
decision to hold the winter Olympics. DO NOT write: One example of Gene’s
salient qualities is when he decides to hold the winter Olympics
 always follow “this” with a specific noun. EX: This behavior reveals Brinker’s state of mind. DO NOT write: This shows that he is different than Phineas.
 use original, fresh wording to articulate an idea. (try to expand your vocabulary as well, but only use words you know. Do not “thesaurus-ize” your paper.
 use “much,” “many,” “a great amount” EX: Gene struggles with many issues as he develops through adolescence.
 use the verb + not (is not, will not, etc.)


The word “huge” as an ADJ

“throughout the novel”

Using past tense when discussing events of the text.
Find a more precise/ revealing EC.
Ex: Ahab’s madness has a huge effect on the entire crew.
Ahab’s madness has a deadening effect on the life of the entire crew.
Reference the action of the text, instead of the text.
Ex: Throughout the novel, Ahab progressively descends into madness.
While captaining the Pequod, Ahab progressively descends into madness.
Use present tense:
Ex: When Ishmael went to the Spouter Inn, he met Queeqeueg.
When Ishmael goes to the Spouter Inn, he meets Queequeg.